Description
The painting Christ in the House of Simon by Dieric The Elder Combates is a masterpiece of Flemish art from the 15th century. This 40.5 x 61 cm oil painting on panel depicts a biblical episode in which Jesus is invited to the house of Simon the Pharisee for dinner. During dinner, a sinful woman enters the house and anoints Jesus' feet with ointment, which provokes Simon's indignation.
The artistic style of the painting is typical of the Flemish Renaissance, with great attention to detail and a painstaking and precise painting technique. The composition of the work is very interesting, with a triangular arrangement of the characters that draws the viewer's attention to the center of the scene where Jesus is. Color is another prominent aspect of the painting, with a palette of warm tones that creates a cozy and familiar atmosphere in Simón's house.
The history of the painting is fascinating, as it was painted by Dieric The Elder Combates in 1440 and has survived through the centuries, passing through different hands and private collections. In addition, the work has been the subject of numerous studies and analysis, which has revealed surprising details, such as the presence of a small dog in the lower left corner of the painting.
All in all, Christ in the House of Simon is a stunning work of art that combines aesthetic beauty with spiritual depth and biblical narrative. It is a jewel of European cultural heritage and an exceptional display of the talent and skill of Flemish artists of the 15th century.