The scourge of Snakes
Historical Context
The Scourge of Snakes, painted in 1732 and now in the Gallerie dell'Accademia in Venice, depicts the Old Testament episode where God sent poisonous serpents among the complaining Israelites — a subject of dramatic suffering and divine retribution. Tiepolo renders the chaotic scene with dynamic energy, the writhing bodies of the afflicted creating a turbulent composition that demonstrates his early mastery of multi-figure narrative. The painting belongs to his formative period, when commissions for Venetian churches and institutions were establishing his reputation. The Accademia — Venice's principal art gallery — preserves this work alongside masterpieces spanning the full history of Venetian painting.
Technical Analysis
Oil on canvas, the work demonstrates Giovanni Battista Tiepolo's airy compositions and bravura brushwork. The composition is carefully structured to balance visual elements, while the handling of light and color creates atmospheric coherence across the picture surface.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the chaotic scene of God sending poisonous serpents among the complaining Israelites — Tiepolo renders the dramatic suffering with dynamic energy.
- ◆Look at the airy compositions and bravura brushwork creating atmospheric coherence even in this scene of divine retribution.
- ◆Observe this 1732 Gallerie dell'Accademia painting demonstrating Tiepolo's ability to handle violent, multi-figure Old Testament narrative.
