Artwork
Christ and the Woman of Samaria
Christ and the Woman of Samaria is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Annibale Carracci. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the Pinacoteca di Brera.
About this work
Overview
Annibale Carracci’s oil on canvas, dated to 1593–1594, depicts the biblical encounter between Christ and the Samaritan woman at the well. Executed during the artist’s early mature period, the work forms part of the decorative programme associated with the Palazzo Sampieri frescoes. A later, smaller version, differing in certain details, survives in the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest.
Subject & Meaning
The composition illustrates the New Testament narrative in which Jesus engages the Samaritan woman, highlighting themes of spiritual thirst and revelation. By focusing on the intimate dialogue, Carracci emphasizes the universality of the Christian message, bridging cultural divides between Jewish and Samaritan communities.
Technique & Style
Rendered in oil on canvas, the painting showcases Carracci’s synthesis of naturalistic observation and classical compositional balance. Soft modeling of figures, nuanced chiaroscuro, and a restrained palette reflect the artist’s transition from Mannerist influences toward the emerging Baroque sensibility.
History & Provenance
Created as part of the larger decorative scheme for the Palazzo Sampieri, the canvas remained in private collections before entering the public domain. A smaller autograph replica, produced by Carracci himself a few years later, was eventually acquired by the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest, where it is on display.
Context
The work belongs to a period when Carracci was redefining Italian painting, moving away from the artificiality of late Mannerism. Its thematic choice aligns with Counter‑Reformation interests in biblical subjects that could convey moral instruction through accessible, emotionally resonant imagery.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Annibale Carracci ( kə-RAH-chee, UK also kə-RATCH-ee, Italian: ; November 3, 1560 – July 15, 1609) was an Italian painter and instructor, active in Bologna and later in Rome.
