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.

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Pieter Lastman has taken a scene from a story by the Greek dramatist Euripides. This is the story of Iphigenia and her brother Orestes. Iphigenia is standing on the right beside the altar. She is a priestess to the goddess Artemis. Two men are standing on the left: Orestes and his friend Pylades. One of them must be sacrificed on the altar. They are arguing about which of them should sacrifice himself for the other. The executioner has his club ready and the fire is already burning furiously. Iphegenia has not yet realised that her brother is standing opposite her. In the end she recognises Orestes and escapes with him and Pylades.

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