Johannes Vermeer 1632 – 1675

Christ in the House of Martha and Mary

oil on canvas (160 × 142 cm) — ca. 1654 Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

Johannes Vermeer biography

This work is linked to Luke 10:40

An early work by Vermeer. It is the largest surviving painting he made. It is likely that he freely borrowed elements from mostly Italian masters, including Jesus' face and the gesture he makes with his right hand.

Mary listens attentive while her sister Martha presents the bread. Jesus says that Martha had better do like her sister.

Vermeer used the subjects' gazes and gestures to compose a strong cohesion among them.

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