Susanna and the Elders 1588

Paolo Veronese painted this large canvas, Susanna and the Elders, in the 16th century. The story comes from the Book of Daniel, recounting Susanna’s false accusation of adultery by two elders after she rejects their sexual advances. Consider the cultural backdrop: in Venice, then as now, beauty was a commodity, yet women’s bodies remained subject to the male gaze and judgment. Veronese, situates Susanna in a lush Italian garden, heightening the contrast between her vulnerability and the elders' predatory stance. Note how Susanna averts her gaze, but her body is exposed for our—and the elders'—scrutiny. The painting isn’t just a biblical scene; it's an exploration of power, desire, and morality. Veronese masterfully captures the tension between innocence and corruption, inviting us to reflect on the ever-relevant themes of gender and justice.