Elijah Fed by an Angel

This 1661 Elijah Fed by an Angel continues Bol's engagement with Old Testament narrative subjects that he had first explored under Rembrandt's guidance. The subject of divine provision in the wilderness carried eucharistic associations and resonated with themes of faith and sustenance. Ferdinand Bol was one of Rembrandt's most talented pupils, and his portraits and history paintings from his years in the master's studio are sometimes difficult to distinguish from Rembrandt's own work—a testament to his exceptional skill in absorbing the master's technique.

The biblical scene combines Rembrandtesque dramatic lighting with Bol's mature figure painting, the angel's appearance creating a supernatural radiance within the dark wilderness setting.