Ruth and Naomi
Artist
Jacob Jordaens the elder
(Flemish, 1593 – 1678)
Datec. 1641/1642
MediumOil on canvas
DimensionsImage: 76 1/2 x 30 3/4 in. (194.3 x 78.1 cm)
Frame: 84 x 38 1/4 x 2 1/2 in. (213.4 x 97.2 x 6.4 cm)
Frame: 84 x 38 1/4 x 2 1/2 in. (213.4 x 97.2 x 6.4 cm)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineMuseum purchase, 1984
Object numberSN988
This painting and its companion Boaz (at the left) show Jordaens as master of the monumental figure. They may have been installed high up, above a doorway or flanking a window. The subject is taken from the Old Testament book of Ruth where Naomi and her daughter-in-law, Ruth, return to Bethlehem and seek the protection of Boaz, a wealthy cousin to Naomi's deceased husband. The tender story of Boaz's kindness (he marries the widow Ruth) and Ruth's loyalty is the theme of the biblical book.
On View
Not on view
Object/Object