Spanish school of the third quarter of the 18th century.
"Christ washing the feet of the Apostles".
Oil on canvas. Without stretcher.
Measurements: 65 x 160 cm.
It is represented here a scene narrated by the Gospel of John, widely treated in the baroque painting. Christ kneeling before Peter, is preparing to wash his feet. The rest of the apostles surround the two figures and exchange impressions, looking stunned by the idea of being washed by their Lord. The figure of Jesus, distinguished from the others by his attitude, determines the disposition of the rest. The Gospel of John tells how, during the Last Supper, Jesus got up from the table, took off his cloak and tied a towel around his waist. After pouring water into a basin, he began to wash his disciples' feet. Simon Peter pretended to refuse, but when Jesus insisted that otherwise he could have no part with him, he agreed to have his feet washed. The washing of feet was a common ritual in Eastern culture, in fact, in the Old Testament we find examples of this practice, for example in the visit of the angels to Abraham. Such an action is associated with hospitality, but Jesus' gesture towards his apostles adds a new significant dimension that alludes to humility.