Balaam and the Ass

One of the earliest works by the young Rembrandt, who in 1626 had just set up shop for himself. This work is probably derivative of a painting by his master Pieter Lastman, be it in a truly new composition.

Balaam was a heathen prophet summoned by the Moabitean King Balak to curse Israel. On his way to Balak his she-ass refuses to walk three times because an angel blocks the road. Balaam does not see the angel and strikes the she-ass. After a third thrashing the god of the Hebrews speaks through the she-ass: What have I done to you? At which Balaam repents.