Artwork
The Feast in the House of Simon
The Feast in the House of Simon is an oil painting by the Baroque artist El Greco (Doménikos Theotokópoulos) and workshop. It dates from 1611 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
- Accession no.
- 65509
- Credit line
- Gift of Joseph Winterbotham Collection
About this work
Overview
The Feast in the House of Simon is an oil on canvas painting by El Greco, created with the assistance of his workshop.
Technique & Style
The painting showcases El Greco's late-career style, characterized by bold highlights, elongated figures, and vibrant colors. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes contrasts between light and dark, adds depth to the scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a gathering of people in a large room, engaged in eating and conversation. The scene is likely a representation of a biblical or historical event, although the specific narrative is not immediately clear.
History & Provenance
The painting was executed by El Greco and his workshop, with the artist's son Jorge Manuel possibly contributing to the work. The varying quality of the figures' heads suggests the involvement of multiple artists.
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Artist & collection
Artist
El Greco (Doménikos Theotokópoulos) and workshop
El Greco and his workshop painted dramatic religious scenes in oil on canvas, blending elongated figures, sharp contrasts, and glowing colors.
