Spanish Colonial, Mexico, ca. 1750 CE. A large-scale oil painting in a 22 karat gold leaf finished wood frame, depicting Christ sitting at Jacob's Well surrounded by his twelve disciples. A tree in the near distance is a traditional element of this scene used to indicate shade for those who come to drink from the well. The pitcher on the ground (near the picture plane) symbolizes Christ's interactions with the Woman of Samaria (see below) who is approaching with other townspeople (depicted in the middle ground). Most likely the first in the long line, she is richly dressed as was customary for a courtesan. In the background are the walls of the town. This composition presents an interesting twist, as usually this scene features Christ in conversation with the woman as the disciples approach. A wonderful painting created by an artist who was interested in utilizing linear perspective, creating finely modeled figures, and of course capturing this meaningful biblical story. Size: 58" L x 41.5" W (147.3 cm x 105.4 cm); 67.5" L x 50.5" W (171.4 cm x 128.3 cm) framed

Further context on the iconography of this painting: On his way from Judaea to Galilee, Christ stopped to rest by a spring known as Jacob's Well, just outside the town of Sychar in Samaria. A Samaritan adulteress who came to draw water from the well was surprised by his request for a drink; first of all it was not customary for a Jew to address a strange woman; second of all, the animosity between Jews and Samaritans prompted them not to share vessels, according to John. Christ, however, seized the opportunity to teach a lesson via metaphor: "Everyone who drinks the water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I shall give him will never suffer thirst any more." Returning from town, the disciples were astonished to find Christ speaking with this woman.

Provenance: ex- private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection

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#124492

Two small repairs with visible patches on verso (one at the upper end of canvas, one at the lower end). Painting shows signs of wear with some pigment loss and areas of craquelure. Verso of canvas has darkened commensurate with age. Original stretcher bars.