Attributed to Cornelis van Dalem, Netherlandish (active Antwerp), first documented 1545, died 1573 – A Knight, Death, and the Devil Philadelphia Museum of Art

Here we observe a dramatic scene unfolding within a densely wooded landscape that recedes into a hazy distance. A knight, fully armored and mounted on a powerful brown horse, dominates the foreground. He holds a long spear pointed downwards, seemingly controlling or guiding the procession before him. The composition is structured around this central figure, who appears resolute despite the unsettling company he keeps.
Leading the way are two distinct figures, each riding their own mount. One is a skeletal representation of Death, draped in tattered robes and astride a pale horse. His face is partially obscured by his hood, yet the bony structure is clearly visible, emphasizing his role as an embodiment of mortality. The other figure, identifiable as the Devil, rides a dark brown horse and possesses a grotesque visage with pointed ears and a sinister expression. He appears to be actively resisting the knight’s control, evidenced by the taut reins connecting them.
The ground at the base of the composition is littered with debris – stones, foliage, and most notably, a human skull. This detail serves as a stark reminder of mortality and the fragility of life, reinforcing the thematic concerns presented by Deaths presence. The landscape itself contributes to the overall atmosphere; the dark, dense trees create a sense of enclosure and foreboding, while the distant city glimpsed through the foliage suggests a world beyond this immediate confrontation – perhaps representing civilization or salvation that remains out of reach.
The artist’s use of light is significant. It illuminates the knight and his horse, highlighting their strength and determination, while leaving Death and the Devil partially shrouded in shadow, emphasizing their malevolent nature. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, greens, and grays – which contribute to a somber and weighty mood.
Subtexts within this work revolve around themes of temptation, mortality, and spiritual struggle. The knight’s control over Death and the Devil can be interpreted as a symbolic representation of overcoming adversity or resisting evil forces. The scene suggests a journey through a perilous landscape, both physical and metaphorical, where one must confront the inevitability of death and the allure of sin to reach a desired destination – perhaps salvation or enlightenment. The composition’s complexity invites contemplation on the nature of good versus evil and the human condition in the face of existential threats.