Artwork
Calling of St. Matthew (Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27-28)
Calling of St. Matthew (Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27-28) is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Theodoor van Loon. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw. The Calling of St.
About this work
Overview
The Calling of St. Matthew is a 1620 religious oil painting by Theodoor van Loon, depicting a pivotal biblical scene. It is part of the collection at the National Museum in Warsaw.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the moment when Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow him, as described in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The scene conveys the surprise and invitation at the heart of the narrative.
Technique & Style
Van Loon employs chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, to emphasize the figures. Warm light highlights the faces of the main subjects, while dark shadows on the wood-paneled background create depth and make the figures stand out.
History & Provenance
Created in 1620, the painting is attributed to Theodoor van Loon. Its current location is the National Museum in Warsaw, though the full provenance history is not detailed here.
Context
The use of chiaroscuro and the focus on a intimate, emotionally charged moment reflect Baroque influences common in early 17th-century European religious art.
Legacy
While specific impact or notable exhibitions of this work are not highlighted, it remains a representative example of early 17th-century religious painting techniques and themes.
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