Artwork

The Good Samaritan

The Good Samaritan, by Unknown, oil, 1648
The Good Samaritan, by Unknown, oil, 1648

The Good Samaritan is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1648 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

The Good Samaritan is a painting depicting a dramatic, dimly lit scene with multiple figures, a horse, and a ladder, set against a predominantly dark color palette with selective highlights.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing the theme of aiding strangers in need. The composition focuses on a wounded man surrounded by others, conveying a sense of community response.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, to achieve a three-dimensional effect. This lighting technique accentuates faces, hands, and key elements, adding depth to the scene.

Context

The use of chiaroscuro suggests the painting may align with Baroque artistic tendencies, which often utilized dramatic lighting for emotional impact.

The Good Samaritan
The Good Samaritan, Simon Francois Ravenet I

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Good Samaritan?

The Good Samaritan was painted by Unknown in 1648.

Where can I see The Good Samaritan?

The Good Samaritan is held by Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

What movement is The Good Samaritan?

The Good Samaritan is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.