John Chrysostom and Aelia Eudoxia 1880

Jean-Paul Laurens painted John Chrysostom and Aelia Eudoxia in the 19th century. The painting depicts a tense confrontation between the powerful Empress Eudoxia and John Chrysostom, the Archbishop of Constantinople. Laurens chooses to stage this moment in the patriarchal architecture of the church, emphasizing a power dynamic in which Eudoxia watches from her private viewing box. The arrangement underscores the limited agency women had, even those in positions of power. It’s a sharp visual commentary on gender, power, and religious authority. Laurens was known for his historical paintings which often critiqued the established social and political order. This painting, while depicting a historical event, subtly challenges the viewer to reflect on contemporary issues of power, gender, and the role of institutions. The somber tones and dramatic lighting heighten the emotional intensity, inviting us to reflect on the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.