#23269 Jusepe de Ribera (1591-1652)

The composition centers on a male figure, presumably a shepherd, positioned slightly off-center within a dimly lit landscape. He is clad in simple, earth-toned garments – a reddish-brown tunic and lighter trousers – suggesting a life of labor and humility. His beard and hair are long and unkempt, further reinforcing this impression of rustic existence. The figure’s hands are raised towards the sky in what appears to be either supplication or astonishment; his posture conveys a sense of profound emotion.
A substantial flock of sheep surrounds him, some clustered closely while others graze in the foreground. Their presence is not merely decorative but integral to understanding the narrative implied within the work. The artist has rendered them with considerable detail, capturing their varied textures and poses, contributing to the overall realism of the scene. A shepherd’s staff rests on the ground near his feet, a practical tool that also symbolizes his role as caretaker.
The background is shrouded in shadow, dominated by a large, dark rock formation on the left side and indistinct foliage suggesting a wild, untamed environment. The light source appears to originate from an unseen point above and behind the figure, illuminating him dramatically and creating a strong contrast between light and darkness. This chiaroscuro effect intensifies the emotional impact of the scene and draws attention to the shepherd’s expression.
Subtleties within the painting hint at deeper meanings. The suddenness of his gesture – the raised hands, the open mouth – suggests an unexpected event or revelation. The sheep, traditionally symbolic of innocence and followers, are depicted in a naturalistic manner, devoid of any overt religious iconography, which could imply a more universal narrative about faith, wonder, or connection to nature. The darkness enveloping the background might represent uncertainty or the unknown, against which this moment of clarity is set. Overall, the work evokes a sense of quiet contemplation and spiritual awakening within an ordinary setting.