Belshazzar sees the writing on the wall John Lawson (1674-1711)

The composition presents a scene of dramatic tension and impending doom. A lavish banquet is underway, populated by numerous figures draped in opulent robes of varying hues – crimson, gold, and pale pink dominate. The arrangement suggests a royal court, likely engaged in revelry. However, the atmosphere is far from celebratory; it’s charged with anxiety and fear.
The focal point resides in a man, presumably the host, who raises his hands in a gesture of astonishment or terror. His posture, along with that of several others nearby, conveys a sense of profound shock. Their faces are rendered with varying degrees of distress – some appear frozen in disbelief, while others exhibit outright panic. The artist has skillfully used light and shadow to accentuate these expressions, drawing the viewer’s attention to their emotional turmoil.
Above them, inscribed on what appears to be a wall or ceiling, are Aramaic words. Their presence is significant; they represent a divine message, an omen of impending judgment. The inscription itself seems to glow with an ethereal light, further emphasizing its supernatural origin and importance.
The lighting in the painting is theatrical, highlighting certain figures while plunging others into shadow. This selective illumination contributes to the overall sense of drama and foreboding. A fallen goblet lies on the floor near the host’s feet, a symbolic representation of lost grace or divine displeasure. The arrangement of the figures creates a dynamic composition, guiding the eye from the central figure to the inscription above, then back down to the scattered revelers.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of hubris and divine retribution. The opulent display of wealth and indulgence contrasts sharply with the impending doom signaled by the writing on the wall. It suggests a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the consequences of ignoring warnings from a higher power. The artist seems to be commenting on the fragility of earthly power and the inevitability of judgment, regardless of ones status or possessions.