Who painted Supper at Emmaus?

Jan Steen painted Supper at Emmaus in 1665.

What Bible passage does Supper at Emmaus depict?

Supper at Emmaus depicts the biblical scene from Luke 24:13-35.

Where is Supper at Emmaus located?

Supper at Emmaus is housed at Rijksmuseum, Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam.

Supper at Emmaus by Jan Steen

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"Supper at Emmaus" by Jan Steen is a remarkable masterpiece that breathes life into the biblical narrative found in Luke 24:13-35. Created between 1665 and 1668 using oil on canvas, this painting embodies the artist's skillful storytelling and profound exploration of spiritual themes.

Steen's interpretation transports viewers to the moment when two disciples, on their way to Emmaus, encounter an unexpected guest - none other than Christ himself. The artist captures the essence of surprise and awe on the disciples' faces as they sit down to eat with the stranger, not realizing His true identity at first. As they break bread, the revelation dawns upon them, and they recognize the divine presence before them.

The composition is masterfully crafted, drawing viewers into the scene as if they were part of the gathering. The use of light and shadow adds depth and intensity, subtly guiding the viewer's gaze towards the focal point where the revelation unfolds. Steen's attention to detail in the rendering of expressions and gestures further enhances the emotional impact of the encounter.

The interplay of light and shadow in the painting mirrors the journey of spiritual discovery experienced by the disciples. The shades and nuances hint at the ethereal nature of the moment, as the divine presence reveals itself in the midst of the ordinary. Steen's artistic choice to depict Christ's shade beneath the arbour symbolizes the fleeting and mysterious nature of the encounter - a profound moment that lingers in the disciples' hearts and memories.

"Supper at Emmaus" stands as a testament to Jan Steen's mastery in capturing both the tangible and the spiritual in his artwork. His ability to portray human emotions and the divine presence in a harmonious union elevates this painting to a higher level of artistic expression.

In conclusion, "Supper at Emmaus" by Jan Steen is a captivating portrayal of a significant biblical event, brought to life through the artist's exceptional storytelling and technical prowess. Steen's unique interpretation and profound exploration of spiritual themes make this painting a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with viewers, inviting them to contemplate the transformative power of encountering the divine in the midst of the ordinary.

Details

Artist: Jan Steen
Created: 1665 - 1668
Medium: oil on canvas
Dimension: 104cm × 134cm
Passage: Luke 24:13-35
Housed at: Rijksmuseum Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam

Found in: Luke, Luke 24, 17th century, Emmaus

Luke 24:13-35

13 Behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was sixty stadia from Jerusalem.

14 They talked with each other about all of these things which had happened.

15 While they talked and questioned together, Jesus himself came near, and went with them.

16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him.

17 He said to them, “What are you talking about as you walk, and are sad?”

18 One of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who doesn’t know the things which have happened there in these days?”

19 He said to them, “What things?” They said to him, “The things concerning Jesus, the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people;

20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him.

21 But we were hoping that it was he who would redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened.

22 Also, certain women of our company amazed us, having arrived early at the tomb;

23 and when they didn’t find his body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive.

24 Some of us went to the tomb, and found it just like the women had said, but they didn’t see him.”

25 He said to them, “Foolish men, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!

26 Didn’t the Christ have to suffer these things and to enter into his glory?”

27 Beginning from Moses and from all the prophets, he explained to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

28 They came near to the village, where they were going, and he acted like he would go further.

29 They urged him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is almost evening, and the day is almost over.” He went in to stay with them.

30 When he had sat down at the table with them, he took the bread and gave thanks. Breaking it, he gave it to them.

31 Their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he vanished out of their sight.

32 They said to one another, “Weren’t our hearts burning within us, while he spoke to us along the way, and while he opened the Scriptures to us?”

33 They rose up that very hour, returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and those who were with them,

34 saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!”

35 They related the things that happened along the way, and how he was recognized by them in the breaking of the bread.

Luke 24:13-35 · World English Bible

The artist

Jan Steen

1626 - 1679

Leiden, Netherland

Jan Havickszoon Steen (c. 1626 – buried 3 February 1679) was a Dutch genre painter of the 17th century (also known as the Dutch Golden Age). His works are known for their psychological insight, sense of humour and abundance of colour.