The artwork “The Supper at Emmaus,” created by Peter Paul Rubens in 1610, is an oil on canvas painting with dimensions of 205 x 188 cm. This religious painting, exemplifying the Baroque art movement, is currently held in a private collection.
In the artwork, the scene depicted portrays the biblical story of the Supper at Emmaus, where the resurrected Jesus reveals his identity to two of his disciples. Rubens has masterfully captured the moment of recognition and astonishment. The central figure of Jesus is displayed with a tranquil expression, his eyes uplifted heavenward, suggesting divine revelation, and he is flanked by his disciples who exhibit varying degrees of surprise and disbelief. To the left, a disciple turns toward the viewer as if caught in mid-motion by the revelation, while to the right, another disciple gestures with his hands in an expression of sudden understanding. An older woman, perhaps the innkeeper, stands behind Jesus, adding to the narrative context. The handling of light accentuates the figures and brings a dramatic intensity to the composition that is characteristic of the Baroque style. The detailed rendering of textures, from the folds in the garments to the tableware, showcases Rubens’s skillful brushwork and his ability to convey material quality and emotional depth.
