Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet c. 1630 - 1635

Editor: Here we have Jan Lievens' oil on panel, "Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet," from around 1630-1635. It’s currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago. It's a darkly lit piece, really focused on a small circle of action. I’m immediately drawn to the dramatic use of light and shadow, that chiaroscuro thing. It kind of feels like a stage play. What jumps out at you? Curator: It’s interesting you mention the stage, because for me, it evokes a memory… As a child, my grandmother took me to see this tiny puppet show retelling Bible stories with way more drama than the good book itself… That being said, there is that theatrical lighting we see in Baroque painting. And I wonder, do you see how Lievens directs our gaze right where the washing takes place, making that simple act of service…divine? Editor: Yeah, definitely! The light definitely highlights the humility in the action, right? Curator: Humility indeed! It's about power, too. Here's a figure who, based on the narrative, could command legions of angels but chooses instead to wash feet. Think about what it would mean to upend the typical relationship that way, especially in that period… Editor: Wow, I hadn't thought about it like that. It changes the whole interpretation, adding a social layer I completely missed at first. Curator: Isn’t it magnificent when a painting whispers unexpected truths? This wasn't merely a religious scene to Lievens, I bet: it might have been a social statement as well. Editor: It's like unpacking layers upon layers of meaning… This has totally opened my eyes to seeing more than just the obvious narrative in Baroque art. Curator: Exactly! Each viewing becomes an unveiling. I can see Lievens’ work and understand it more richly thanks to you.