The Marriage at Cana 

Luca Giordano painted "The Marriage at Cana," a depiction of a biblical wedding feast, sometime in the 17th century. This scene is set against an architectural background. Giordano was working in Naples, a vibrant port city then under Spanish rule. To understand this painting, we must consider Naples' position as a hub of commerce and cultural exchange. The sumptuousness of the scene—the richly dressed figures and overflowing table—reflects the city's cosmopolitan character, one where the church was a major political force. The painting uses the story of Jesus turning water into wine to talk about social concerns in its own time. It seems to be a commentary on the lavish displays of wealth by the church. It prompts us to consider who is invited to the banquet and who is left to serve. By looking into historical documents, we may better understand the social dynamics of 17th-century Naples. It shows how art and social environment are linked.