Peter Paul Rubens
(1577-1640)
Der sterbende Seneca,
um 1612/13
Material / Technology / Carrier
Holz
Dimensions of the object
185 x 154,7 cm
Displayed
AP OG Saal VII
Acquisition
1806 aus der Galerie Düsseldorf
Stock
Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen - Alte Pinakothek München
Citation
Peter Paul Rubens, Der sterbende Seneca, um 1612/13, Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen - Alte Pinakothek München, URL: https://www.sammlung.pinakothek.de/en/artwork/wE4KXQExZ5 (Last updated on 17.10.2023)
Seneca championed the teachings of Stoicism that are illustrated here. Incorrectly suspected of conspiracy by Emperor Nero he was forced to commit suicide. He faced death with equanimity in keeping with the principles of Stoicism. By acquiescing to his unjust fate in an upright and composed fashion he demonstrated the attitude he embodied even in the face of his tyrant.
Seneca’s body is based on a Classical sculpture that Rubens had drawn from numerous angles during his stay in Rome. The facial features correspond to those of a bust of the philosopher.
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