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Pieter Lastman: The Lamentation of Abel

Pieter Lastman ca. 1583 – 1633

The Lamentation of Abel

oil on panel (67 × 94 cm) — 1623 Museum Rembrandthuis, Amsterdam Twitter Share on Twitter

Pieter Lastman biography

This work is linked to Genesis 4:13

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Adam and Eve mourn for their son Abel, who was slain by his brother Cain.

The smoke on the right comes from the fire the brothers must have lit to make their offerings. Abel's sheep are still around.

The identity of the other figures is unknown. Perhaps Lastman added them to emphasize the tragic character of the scene. Without them it all might seem too peaceful.

Related art

  • Lucas van Leyden: Adam and Eve Bemoaning the Death of Abel
  • Il Tintoretto: Cain and Abel
  • Bertram of Minden: Cain and Abel bring offerings
  • Titian: Cain and Abel
  • William Blake: Cain flees