Who painted Christ at Emmaus?

Christ at Emmaus was painted by Benjamin West in 1790.

Where can I see Christ at Emmaus?

Christ at Emmaus is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Christ at Emmaus?

Christ at Emmaus is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Christ at Emmaus?

Museum-quality prints of Christ at Emmaus are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Christ at Emmaus

Benjamin West , 1790

Christ at Emmaus is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Benjamin West. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1942.886
Credit line: Gift of Robert Hays Gries

About this work

Overview

Created in 1790, Christ at Emmaus is a drawing by Benjamin West that depicts a biblical scene in a domestic interior. The composition centers on a long‑haired figure in a white robe, surrounded by companions who gesture toward him. A darkened background isolates the group, emphasizing their expressions and the narrative moment.

Subject & Meaning

The work illustrates the moment from the Gospel of Luke when the resurrected Christ reveals himself to two disciples at Emmaus. West highlights the recognition and revelation theme: the central figure’s calm demeanor contrasts with the astonished gestures of the others, underscoring the spiritual awakening inherent in the story.

Technique & Style

West employs a highly realistic approach, rendering the folds of clothing and facial features with meticulous detail. The drawing’s chiaroscuro, dark surroundings against illuminated figures, creates depth and focuses attention on the central interaction. The precision of line work conveys a tangible presence, aligning the piece with the conventions of late‑18th‑century history painting.

History & Provenance

An American-born artist who established his career in London, West rose to become the court’s historical painter and the second president of the Royal Academy. Christ at Emmaus entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains part of the museum’s holdings of religious genre works.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Benjamin West

Benjamin West (October 10, 1738 – March 11, 1820) was an American-born British painter who specialised in history painting, creating such works as The Death of Nelson, The Death of General Wolfe, the Treaty of Paris,…