Elijah

painting by Kneller

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July 19, 2026

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The painting "Elijah" was created by Sir Godfrey Kneller, a prominent Baroque portraitist in England during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Kneller studied under Ferdinand Bol in Amsterdam before moving to Italy, where he began painting portraits and developed his style. His "Elijah" from 1672 shows an early style influenced by Bol.1

The subject of the painting, Elijah, was a Hebrew prophet from the 9th century BCE. He is known for his role in preserving the religion of Yahweh from the worship of Baal. Elijah's story is told in the Bible, where he proclaimed a drought and famously challenged the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, demonstrating the power of Yahweh. He is also recognized as a prophet in Islam. Elijah was succeeded by the prophet Elisha.23

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Sir Godfrey Kneller, Baronet
His Elijah of that year gives evidence of a style close to Bol’s. In Italy he began to paint portraits and modified his style. Arriving in England in 1674 or 1675, he soon established himself as a portrait painter, especially after he painted Charles II, and…
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His Elijah of that year gives evidence of a style close to Bol’s. In Italy he began to paint portraits and modified his style. Arriving in England in 1674 or 1675, he soon established himself as a portrait painter, especially after he painted Charles II, and…
Read More