A Witches' Sabbath

Cornelis Saftleven

Created:
Movement:
c. 1650
Baroque
key Notes:
Grotesque Imagery, Supernatural Gathering
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Dimensions:
54.3 × 78.2 cm (21 3/8 × 30 3/4 in.)
medium:
Oil on panel
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

A Witches' Sabbath by Cornelis Saftleven

"A Witches' Sabbath", created circa 1650 by Cornelis Saftleven, is an oil on panel painting that exemplifies the artist's fascination with fantastical and supernatural themes. Saftleven, a Dutch painter born in 1607, was known for his genre scenes, landscapes, and satirical works, often incorporating elements of humor and moral commentary. This particular painting reflects the 17th-century European interest in witchcraft and the supernatural, a theme that was both feared and popularized in art and literature of the time. Saftleven's work is characterized by meticulous detail and a vivid imagination, contributing to the broader Baroque movement's exploration of dramatic and complex subjects. The painting's historical impact lies in its representation of cultural attitudes towards witchcraft during the Dutch Golden Age, offering insight into the period's social and religious dynamics. Saftleven's ability to blend realism with fantasy has secured his place as a notable figure in Dutch art history.

Description of the work:

A Witches' Sabbath by Cornelis Saftleven

Created circa 1650, "A Witches' Sabbath" by Cornelis Saftleven is an oil on panel painting that exemplifies the Northern European fascination with fantastical and supernatural themes during the Baroque period. The artwork depicts a chaotic gathering of witches and mythical creatures, showcasing Saftleven's skill in rendering detailed and imaginative scenes.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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A Witches' Sabbath