Art | Pictures of the Month | March 2008
Picture of the Month
March 2008
The Marriage at Cana [c.1672]
by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo’s vision of Christ’s first miracle, The Marriage at Cana, was commissioned to commemorate the marriage of a wealthy 17th-century Flemish textile merchant, and uncovers the diverse and cosmopolitan outlook of Sevillian life during the period. A complex and intriguing painting, The Marriage at Cana is the work of one of the most prominent Spanish Baroque artists, and a true masterpiece of the Barber collection.
With a clear Italianate influence, the work of Murillo (1618–1682) at this time shows he abandoned a warm and charming painterly style for sharp dramatic form. The theatricality of this image is enriched by a stream of light washing over the feast, which highlights the bride’s empty glass, as Christ transforms water into wine. Murillo captures the action of this dramatic moment with simplicity, painting Christ in the same style as the servants.
In the centre of the miraculous scene, Murillo presents Don Nicolás Omazur, as the groom and patron of this work, in great magnificence. The juxtaposition of Christ’s modest demeanour with the luxurious surroundings adds to the realism with which we are to view the miracle. Laden with cultural references from Africa, the Americas and even as far away as China, this painting records Spain at a time when its affluent trade allowed it to flourish as the foremost power in Europe, providing the viewer with an intriguing balance of secular and religious points for contemplation.
The public conservation of this work in 2004 has transformed its appearance, allowing its remarkable detail to be viewed with greater clarity.
A 15-minute gallery talk focusing on this picture and exhibition will be held in the Green Gallery on Thursday 6 March at 1.30pm.
| What is your favourite work of art in the Barber Institute galleries? Drop us a line at info@barber.org.uk and let us know, and we could feature your choice in a future Picture of the Month. |