Susanna and the Elders, Rembrandt van Rijn, c. 1650 - c. 1655
pen and brown ink, with opaque white; later additions in grey wash; framing line in brown ink, h 201mm × w 188mm Catalogue entry
While bathing, the beautiful Susanna was accosted by two elders, who threatened to accuse her of adultery if she refused their advances. Rembrandt succeeded masterfully in conveying the unsavoury contrast between the position of power of the treacherous men laying their hands on Susanna and her own vulnerability. The man staring intently at her clothing on the ground emphasizes her nudity.
