The artwork “Christ and the Woman of Samaria” was created by the renowned artist Rembrandt in 1659. It stands as a quintessential example of the Baroque period, with elements of Tenebrism evident in its compositional style, and it is categorized under the genre painting typology. The painting measures 60 by 75 centimeters and currently resides at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
In this artwork, the scene unfolds within a dusky, atmospheric setting that typifies Rembrandt’s adept use of chiaroscuro to enhance the dramatic intensity of the narrative. Christ is depicted in the left of the artwork, portrayed as a humble, bearded figure donning a cloak, seated and engaging in conversation. He is gesturing with an expressive hand towards the Samaritan woman, who stands to the right, defined by a brightly illuminated profile that contrasts starkly with the prevailing gloom. The woman, adorned in clothing that suggests contemporaneity with Rembrandt’s era rather than biblical times, is positioned behind a well, the vessel for drawing water indicating the well-known biblical tale from the Gospel of John.
Her elegant pose and the delicate handling of the bucket and rope add a sense of poise and serenity to the exchange. Behind these central figures, the deep, muted landscape stretches into the distance, punctuated by architectural forms and faint figures, which further contextualize the scene within a narrative tradition. The interplay of light and shadow, the intense focus on the human expression, and the larger composition all contribute to the sense of a profound, spiritual encounter that is characteristic of Rembrandt’s mastery in portraying religious themes.
