Who painted Christ and the Woman of Samaria?

Christ and the Woman of Samaria was painted by German 15th Century in 1470.

Where can I see Christ and the Woman of Samaria?

Christ and the Woman of Samaria is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Christ and the Woman of Samaria?

Christ and the Woman of Samaria is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Christ and the Woman of Samaria

German 15th Century , 1470

Christ and the Woman of Samaria is a paint print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1470 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Markings: Marked:recto: none; verso: G. von Rath (Lugt 2772)

About this work

Overview

Christ and the Woman of Samaria is a hand‑colored metalcut print executed on laid paper. The image portrays the biblical encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at a well, rendered in muted gray tones highlighted with rose accents. The composition balances figures and architectural detail, creating a contemplative atmosphere.

Subject & Meaning

The scene illustrates the moment described in the Gospel of John where Jesus engages the woman in dialogue about living water. By showing the woman transferring water from a large jug to a smaller one, the print emphasizes themes of spiritual nourishment and the exchange of knowledge between the divine and the ordinary.

Technique & Style

The work employs a metalcut process, where the design is incised into a metal plate and printed onto paper. After printing, the image was hand‑colored, applying gray washes for form and rose highlights for emphasis. The stylized architecture of the well and the delicate landscape background reflect Renaissance interests in perspective and naturalistic detail.

History & Provenance

Created during the Renaissance period, the print is part of a broader tradition of religious imagery circulated in Europe. It is currently held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, where it contributes to the museum’s representation of early printmaking techniques.