Lazarus and the Rich Man 

Gabriel Metsu painted "Lazarus and the Rich Man" using oil on canvas, a typical approach for a Dutch Golden Age painter. But look closely, and you'll notice that this painting isn't just about aesthetics; it's about the stark contrast between wealth and poverty. Metsu skillfully uses the materiality of his medium to highlight this divide. The rich man and his guests are adorned in luxurious fabrics, rendered with meticulous detail, while Lazarus is depicted with rough, earthy tones. The rich man's table is laden with delicacies, all painted with such detail and lustre to evoke a sense of abundance. By contrast, Lazarus lies on straw. Metsu uses the texture and color to make a not-so-subtle commentary on social inequality. It's a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for social commentary, challenging our perceptions of wealth, poverty, and the human condition.