The Raising of Lazarus (Guercino)
The Raising of Lazarus is a painting created circa 1619 by the Italian Baroque artist Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known as Guercino. The artwork depicts the biblical scene from the Gospel of John (John 11:1-44) where Jesus Christ raises Lazarus of Bethany from the dead, four days after his burial.
The painting is notable for its dramatic chiaroscuro, a technique characteristic of Guercino's early style, influenced by Caravaggio. This use of strong contrasts between light and dark intensifies the emotional impact of the scene. The composition typically features Lazarus emerging from his tomb, often with a look of astonishment or bewilderment on his face. Jesus is shown extending his hand in a gesture of divine power. The onlookers, including Lazarus' sisters Mary and Martha, and other witnesses, display a range of emotions from awe and disbelief to joy and reverence.
Several versions and copies of "The Raising of Lazarus" attributed to Guercino or his workshop exist in various collections around the world. The location and dimensions of the specific painting identified by the title require further clarification for a more complete entry. Determining the exact provenance and current location of a specific "The Raising of Lazarus" by Guercino is crucial for its detailed art historical analysis.