The Corpses of the De Witt Brothers | Jan de Baen | 17th Century 15th Century Two winged skeletons soar ominously

Two winged skeletons soar ominously above

highlighting his strength and heroism in the face of danger

Cloaked in deep shadow

The meticulous realism of Magritte’s style intensifies the mystery

Diefenbach turns the rescue itself into a symbol of human vulnerability—where hope

The Corpses of the De Witt Brothers | Jan de Baen | 17th Century 15th Century Two winged skeletons soar ominouslyThis stark and unsettling painting records the brutal lynching of Dutch statesmen Johan and Cornelis de Witt during the political upheaval of 1672. Their mutilated bodies hang lifelessly in public view, exposed to the crowds violence and humiliation. Painted with cold clarity and little sentiment, the scene serves as both a historical document and a grim warning about mob rage, political betrayal, and the fragility of power. The dark, matter of fact