Who painted Christ Cleansing the Temple?

Christ Cleansing the Temple was painted by Bernardino Mei in 1655.

Where can I see Christ Cleansing the Temple?

Christ Cleansing the Temple is held by J. Paul Getty Museum.

What movement is Christ Cleansing the Temple?

Christ Cleansing the Temple is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of Christ Cleansing the Temple?

Museum-quality prints of Christ Cleansing the Temple are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Christ Cleansing the Temple

Bernardino Mei , 1655

Christ Cleansing the Temple is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bernardino Mei. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

About this work

Overview

Christ Cleansing the Temple, executed in oil in 1655 by the Italian Baroque artist Bernardino Mei, presents a vivid biblical episode. The canvas, now part of the J. Paul Getty Museum’s collection, exemplifies early Italian Baroque sensibilities through its dramatic narrative and vigorous composition.

Subject & Meaning

The work portrays the moment when Jesus expels the merchants and money changers from the Jerusalem temple. Central to the scene, Christ stands with a whip, his gesture commanding the removal of commercial activity from a sacred space, underscoring themes of purification and divine authority.

Technique & Style

Mei employs strong chiaroscuro, contrasting illuminated figures against a darker background to heighten tension. A palette of vivid reds, blues, and earth tones accentuates the central figure, while the dynamic arrangement of fleeing figures creates a sense of movement and chaos typical of Baroque drama.

History & Provenance

Born in Siena, Mei worked in both his native city and Rome, often under the patronage of the influential Chigi family. The painting entered the Getty Museum’s holdings in the late 20th century, joining a broader collection of European Baroque art.

Context

The composition reflects Counter‑Reformation concerns, using a biblical narrative to reinforce the sanctity of worship spaces. Mei’s depiction aligns with contemporary Roman artistic trends that favored emotional intensity and theatricality to engage viewers spiritually.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Bernardino Mei

Bernardino Mei (23 October 1612 – 1676) was an Italian painter and engraver, who worked in a Baroque manner in his native Siena and in Rome, finding patronage above all in the Chigi family.