The artwork titled “Daniel and King Cyrus in front of the Idol of Bel” was created by Rembrandt in 1633. The piece is an oil painting on board, reflective of the Baroque art movement. Measuring 23 x 30 cm, this religious painting depicts a biblical scene involving the characters Daniel and King Cyrus.
In the artwork, the scene takes place in a dimly lit interior, possibly a temple, suggestive of the Baroque era’s dramatic use of chiaroscuro (the treatment of light and shadow). King Cyrus stands to the right, wearing a luxurious and ornate golden cloak, pointing with a scepter towards the idol of Bel. His posture and clothing suggest authority and power. On the left, Daniel appears to be in a humble, possibly explanatory or pleading posture before the king, with his head bowed. The color palette is muted, with dark tones dominating the setting, again characteristic of Rembrandt’s style and the Baroque period’s focus on dramatic intensity. The idol of Bel is somewhat obscured by shadow but is discernible in the background, draped with rich fabrics, which adds to the sense of a secretive or mystical ceremony taking place. The overall composition and use of light draw the viewer’s attention to the interaction between Daniel, King Cyrus, and the idol, encapsulating the moment of religious confrontation or revelation.