Nicolaes Maes
, Dutch, 1634-1693
Title
Simeon in the Temple; Simeon in the Temple (another version, on verso)Datec.1653
MediumBrown ink and brown wash on paper; with red chalk on verso.
Dimensions
17.2 x 15.5 cm
Credit LinePurchased, 1896
Object numberNGI.2245
DescriptionThe infant Jesus was brought to the temple in Jerusalem to be 'consecrated to the Lord' as was the Jewish custom (Luke 2: 29-32). With a few strokes of the pen Maes brings the characters to life. The figure squinting through a pince-nez at the babe in arms is the elderly Simeon. Often depicted as a High Priest, he would not die until he had seen the Messiah. This drawing was previously thought to be by Rembrandt. There is a chalk sketch on the verso.Exhibition HistoryCentenary Exhibition, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, October - December 1964