Healing at the Pool of Bethesda by Carl Bloch

Christ uncovers a man under a shelter of cloth, sticks and straw. The man is elderly and frail, having suffered infirmities for many years, lying by a pool believed by many to heal. Christ, in heavy, white robes gestures to him to arise, and be made whole. The man appears surprised, yet hopeful as his arms are raised. There are many ill people gathered around the pool. Christ’s companion, looking anxious, can be seen behind him on the left of the composition. Behind them are three bearded men paying close attention to the miracle worker’s actions - as it is the Sabbath. Looks of contempt and scheming glances are seen upon the conspirator’s faces. The architecture is of Italian influence (as a result of Bloch’s time spent in Italy), as the structure is made of stone with thick columns and arches, allowing for open, yet sectioned spacing. A woman in blue and orange robes standing beside a column holds a large water jug against her back and shoulder with her right hand, while pressing her child to her side with her left. Two meager men on the other side of the column sit eating and talking. Beside them a poor, lame man in green stands above them - watching and perhaps hoping for a share in their meal. A poor sickly man in a bright red cap, sits next to the scene - discretely observing the goings-on. As it was a quite competitive event to reach the waters first to be healed, he is perhaps watching closely to see what events occur from this strange encounter between the majestic man and the ailing individual. There is a strong, bright light source from perhaps an opening above the water. The water in the pool is reflective of the woman’s orange and red wrap.

The great detail with which this work is executed, and the sheer size of the painting allows the viewer to experience this miraculous event as if it were happening before their very eyes. Bloch’s ability to capture the pristine moment of divinity and spiritual comprehension brings the account and its lesson to fruition. The posture and soft gesture of Christ exudes the love and sincerity he had for his fellow man. The whiteness of his robes shows his purity among the impurities of man. The discreetly crowded setting offers a sense of his following of the faithful and contemptuous. And his willingness to serve, and more importantly to show man the glories of his Father, offers the viewer with a hope of spiritual renewal, and a desire to offer such hope to others.