Orestes and Pylades Disputing at the Altar, Pieter Lastman, 1614

Orestes and Pylades Disputing at the Altar, Pieter Lastman, 1614

oil on panel, h 83.2cm × w 126.1cm Catalogue entry

This painting depicts a story from Greek antiquity. Orestes and Pylades (left) were caught trying to steal a statue of Diana from the temple (left background). One of them will have to die. At the altar, the friends argue over who will give his life for the other. Lastman’s densely composed compositions, his bright colours and the expressive gestures of his figures – all had an impact on the young Rembrandt.

On display in room 2.8

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