The artwork “Balaam’s Ass” is an oil painting created in 1626 by the Dutch master Rembrandt. It is a piece characteristic of the Baroque period, imbued with the dynamic movement and emotional intensity typical of the era. The medium is oil on panel, with dimensions measuring 46.5 x 63 cm. As a religious painting, it depicts a narrative from the Hebrew Bible. Presently, this painting is part of the collection at Musée Cognacq-Jay in Paris, France.
In “Balaam’s Ass”, the artist portrays a scene with dramatic flair, capturing a moment of intense confrontation. At the forefront, we observe Balaam, dressed in rich, ornate garments, striking a stubborn ass that refuses to move. The ass, according to the biblical story, is recoiling from an angel that Balaam himself cannot see. Indeed, the angel is also in the artwork, brandishing a sword and positioned in such a way that suggests he is confronting Balaam, but his presence is unnoticed by the central figure. Balaam’s expression is one of frustration and anger, and his posture conveys a forceful effort to compel the ass to obey.
Surrounding Balaam are several figures, perhaps his companions, who witness the event with a mixture of concern and bewilderment. The use of chiaroscuro—strong contrasts between light and dark—enhances the sense of drama and focus on the central narrative. The details of the garments, the physical expressions, and the landscape that frames the encounter, all contribute to the storytelling quality of the work, inviting viewers to reflect on the spiritual message behind the biblical story.
