Susanna and the Elders Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

Description of Peter Rubens’ painting Susanna and the Elders

The canvas painted by Rubens depicts Susanna in the center of the painting, bathing in her garden in the nude. And this process was watched with interest by two old men.

The story of the painting is known from many verses in the Book of the Prophet Daniel. According to the story, the observers are deeply respected, elected judges. And they also threatened the girl with accusations of adultery. In this way they were trying to get intimacy from her. Susanna, of course, refused, and for that she was charged with adultery, which was punishable by death.

She was saved from death by the prophet Daniel. He questioned each of the elders individually and realized that they were lying. For this they were executed. The artist frequently referred to this subject.

In the image of Susanna, the author conveyed an incredible sensuality combined with fear. The girl is completely naked, and her delicate body literally glows, revealing itself in the darkness of the garden. This is all revealed by the unique shimmering painting. She looks with horror in her eyes at the elders, who are already reaching for her hands. The painting clearly shows a contrasting combination of tenderness, beauty, freshness and lustful old age. Therein lies all the drama of the subject.

Rubens portrayed Susannah as so pure, tender, and chaste that the victory of innocence over base instincts at the expense of sublime physical beauty is evident.