Johannes Vermeer - Christ in the House of Martha and Mary 1654
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Christ in the House of Martha and Mary 1654
158x141cm oil/canvas
Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh, UK
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Edinburgh, UK
The image is only being used for informational and educational purposes
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From Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh:
This is certainly the largest and one of the earliest surviving paintings by Vermeer. It is also his only known work of a biblical subject. St Luke’s Gospel tells of Christ’s visit to the sisters’ house. Christ praised Mary’s willingness to sit and listen to his teachings, unlike Martha who was preoccupied with housekeeping. The strong play of shadow and light, the characterisation of the figures and broad handling of paint were probably inspired by the work of artists from Utrecht, who in turn were influenced by Caravaggio’s art. Given the unusual size and subject-matter it is likely that the painting was a specific commission.