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Christ in the House of Martha and Mary

Johannes Vermeer1654 — 1656

National Galleries Scotland: National

National Galleries Scotland: National
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

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.

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  • Title: Christ in the House of Martha and Mary
  • Creator: Johannes Vermeer
  • Date Created: 1654 — 1656
  • Physical Location: Scottish National Gallery
  • Location Created: Delft, Dutch Republic
  • Physical Dimensions: h 158.50 x w 141.50 cm
  • Type: Painting
  • Rights: https://www.nationalgalleries.org/copyright-image-licensing
  • External Link: See this work at nationalgalleries.org
  • Medium: Oil on canvas
  • Art Form: Painting
  • Support: Canvas
  • Depicted Person: Jesus, Martha, Mary
National Galleries Scotland: National

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