Artwork
Christ healing the sick in the temple
Christ healing the sick in the temple is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Benjamin West. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.
About this work
Overview
Christ Healing the Sick in the Temple is a 1790 oil painting by Benjamin West, an American-born artist who worked in London. It is a history painting that exemplifies the Neoclassical style.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a scene from the New Testament where Jesus heals the sick in a temple. Christ is shown standing on the left, surrounded by a crowd of afflicted people, conveying a sense of hope and healing.
Technique & Style
The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, emphasizing the central figure of Christ. The somber mood is achieved through a muted color palette, while the composition is characterized by a large stone archway and columns in the background.
History & Provenance
The painting is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum. Benjamin West was a prominent artist under King George III's patronage and played a key role in founding the Royal Academy, later becoming its second president.
Artist & collection
Artist
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,…
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