Sacrifice of Iphigenia 

Jan Steen's "Sacrifice of Iphigenia" is a bustling scene filled with dramatic figures, rich colors, and a palpable sense of tension. The painting, a depiction of the Greek myth of Iphigenia, a young girl sacrificed to appease the goddess Artemis, showcases Steen's mastery of storytelling and his ability to capture the raw emotions of his characters. The viewer is drawn into the heart of the event, witnessing the anguish of Agamemnon, Iphigenia’s father, the frantic efforts of the priest, and the chilling acceptance of Iphigenia’s fate, all while the details of everyday life, such as the dog and the basket of roses, offer a stark contrast to the tragedy unfolding.