Artwork

Christ and the woman of Samaria

Christ and the woman of Samaria, by William Hamilton, unspecified, 1796
Christ and the woman of Samaria, by William Hamilton, unspecified, 1796

Christ and the woman of Samaria is an unspecified painting by the British Romanticist artist William Hamilton. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

About this work

Overview

Christ and the Woman of Samaria, painted by William Hamilton in 1796, is a religious artwork housed at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The scene conveys a sense of serenity.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a biblical encounter between Jesus Christ and the woman of Samaria at a well. Jesus, seated and dressed in red and blue attire, engages with the woman, who stands opposite, clad in yellow with a white headscarf, holding a jug and rope. The interaction is portrayed in an atmosphere of tranquility and contemplation.

Technique & Style

Hamilton's composition features a balanced arrangement of figures against a landscape of rolling hills, mountains, and a blue sky. The use of contrasting colors (red, blue, yellow, white) creates visual harmony, drawing attention to the central figures while subtle background elements (approaching men) add depth without disrupting the serene mood.

History & Provenance

Created in 1796 by William Hamilton, the painting is part of the collection at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, though specific details about its acquisition or previous ownership are not provided here.

Context

This work reflects Hamilton's engagement with biblical themes, common in 18th-century European art. The emphasis on tranquility and the detailed depiction of everyday elements (rope, jug) alongside religious subject matter align with period artistic sensibilities.

Legacy

While specific influences or notable impacts of 'Christ and the Woman of Samaria' on subsequent art are not highlighted, it remains a representative example of late 18th-century religious painting, offering insights into Hamilton's style and the enduring depiction of biblical narratives in art.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Hamilton

William Hamilton painted actors in roles and classical scenes in oils and watercolours.