Artwork

Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet

Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet, by Jan Lievens, oil, 1630
Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet, by Jan Lievens, oil, 1630

Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Jan Lievens. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet is a painting by Jan Lievens, a Dutch Golden Age artist, created around 1630. The work is executed in oil on paper, mounted on a panel.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene from the Bible where Christ washes the feet of his disciples. Lievens captures a quiet moment, emphasizing the gentle interaction between Christ and a disciple, with a sleeping dog in the background adding a sense of domesticity.

Technique & Style

The use of oil on paper gives the painting a distinctive matte finish, differing from the typical oil on canvas works of the period. Soft light is used to illuminate the faces of the figures, creating a serene atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Jan Lievens was trained alongside Rembrandt in Amsterdam before establishing his own career. Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet is now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan Lievens

Artist

Jan Lievens

Jan Lievens (24 October 1607 – 4 June 1674) was a Dutch Golden Age painter who was associated with his close contemporary Rembrandt, a year older, in the early parts of their careers.