





The Slaughter of the Innocents 1565-66
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About Reproduction
Add classic artistic charm to your space with a hand-painted reproduction of The Slaughter of the Innocents 1565-66 by Pieter the Elder Bruegel. Unlike mass-produced posters or prints, this oil painting reproduction is brought to life by skilled artists who meticulously recreate every brushstroke, texture, and color from the original masterpiece. The result is a visually stunning artwork that adds depth, character, and authenticity to any room.
Owning this Pieter the Elder Bruegel replica is more than just decorating your wall — it's a reflection of your appreciation for fine craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Whether displayed in your living room, study, hallway, or office, this piece enriches your space with elegance and visual harmony.
Let The Slaughter of the Innocents 1565-66 transform your home into a place where classic art and personal style meet. Experience the emotional impact and visual warmth that only hand-painted oil art can provide. Curious about the master behind this timeless piece? Discover more about Pieter the Elder Bruegel and explore the artistic legacy that continues to inspire generations.
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Painting Description
"The Slaughter of the Innocents" (1565-66) is a significant and harrowing work by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, a master of the Dutch and Flemish Renaissance painting. This artwork, executed in oil on oak panel, is a profound interpretation of the biblical narrative found in the Gospel of Matthew, which describes King Herod's order to kill all male infants in Bethlehem in an attempt to eliminate the newborn Jesus, whom he saw as a threat to his reign. Bruegel's rendition, however, transcends the mere retelling of a biblical episode, offering a poignant commentary on the brutality and senselessness of violence against the innocent.
Bruegel's genius in "The Slaughter of the Innocents" lies not only in his meticulous attention to detail and his skillful use of color and composition but also in his ability to infuse the painting with a deeper, universal message about human suffering and the atrocities of war. The artist relocates the biblical scene from its traditional Middle Eastern setting to a 16th-century Flemish village, thereby making the horror of the massacre more immediate and relatable to his contemporary audience. This anachronistic shift serves to universalize the theme of innocent suffering, suggesting that such atrocities are not confined to any one time or place.
The painting is remarkable for its depiction of emotion, from the palpable grief and despair of the mothers to the cold indifference of the soldiers carrying out the orders. Bruegel's use of perspective and his ability to capture the chaos and confusion of the massacre add to the painting's dramatic impact. The artist's detailed observation of human behavior and his empathetic portrayal of the victims' suffering make "The Slaughter of the Innocents" a powerful and moving work.
Over the years, "The Slaughter of the Innocents" has been subject to various interpretations and has inspired much scholarly debate, particularly regarding its potential allegorical references to contemporary events, such as the Spanish repression of the Dutch Revolt. Some versions of the painting were even altered to replace the slain infants with animals or bundles of goods, possibly to avoid political or religious controversy.
Today, "The Slaughter of the Innocents" is recognized as one of Bruegel the Elder's masterpieces, admired for both its artistic excellence and its profound emotional and moral depth. It remains a poignant reminder of the timeless and universal tragedy of violence against the innocent, retaining its power to move and provoke reflection among viewers centuries after its creation.
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Lead Time & Shipping
When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.
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Return & Refund
We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.