(b. 1682, Napoli, d. 1752, Madrid)

Jael and Sisera c. 1739 Oil on canvas Museo del Settecento Veneziano, Ca' Rezzonico, Venice

This painting relates the story of Jael and Sisera in tones of delicate colours that contrast emphatically with the drama of the biblical event recounted. It was painted after the artist's return too Venice from travels that took him to most of Europe, when his palette became brighter and more refined.

Sisera was a cruel Canaanite leader who ruled the Israelites for twenty years. Barak defeated his nine hundred charioteers by a surprise Israelite attack. Sisera escaped and sought refuge in the tent of Jael, wife of Heber the Kenite. She gave the terrified Canaanite sanctuary. When he fell asleep, she drove a tent peg into his brain. The act fulfilled the prediction of Debora, prophetess and Israelite leader, who foresaw that a woman would slay Sisera.

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Author: AMIGONI, Jacopo Title: Jael and Sisera Time-line: 1701-1750 School: Italian Form: painting