Supper at Emmaus (Stom, Grenoble)

Le Repas d'Emma%C3%BCs

Supper at Emmaus (Stom, Grenoble) is a significant Baroque painting by the Dutch artist Matthias Stom, also known as Matthias Stomer, who was active during the early to mid-17th century. This artwork is housed in the Museum of Grenoble in Grenoble, France, and is a notable example of Stom's mastery in handling light and shadow, as well as his ability to convey deep emotional and spiritual narratives through his depictions of biblical scenes.

Description

The painting depicts the New Testament story of the Supper at Emmaus, found in the Gospel of Luke 24:13-35. This biblical episode narrates the encounter between two disciples and the resurrected Jesus Christ on the road to Emmaus. Unrecognized by them at first, Jesus is later revealed in the breaking of the bread. Stom's interpretation of this scene is remarkable for its intimate atmosphere and the dramatic use of chiaroscuro, a technique that contrasts light and dark to achieve a sense of volume in modelling three-dimensional objects and figures.

In Supper at Emmaus, Stom captures the moment of revelation with a focus on the figures' expressions and the play of light across the scene, highlighting the astonishment and awe on the disciples' faces. The composition is balanced, drawing the viewer's eye towards the central figure of Jesus, who is depicted blessing the bread. The surrounding darkness enhances the spiritual and mystical quality of the moment, making this work a profound meditation on faith and recognition.

Context and Analysis

Matthias Stom, belonging to the Dutch Golden Age of painting, was known for his religious and genre scenes characterized by their emotional depth and use of light. His works are often compared to those of his contemporaries, such as Caravaggio and Gerrit van Honthorst, who also specialized in the tenebrist style. Supper at Emmaus exemplifies Stom's skill in creating a narrative that is both visually compelling and rich in symbolism.

The choice of the Supper at Emmaus as a subject reflects the Counter-Reformation's emphasis on the Eucharist as a central element of Christian faith and practice. By focusing on the moment of recognition and the sacramental act of breaking bread, Stom underscores the themes of revelation and the presence of the divine in everyday life.

Significance

Supper at Emmaus (Stom, Grenoble) is considered an important work in the oeuvre of Matthias Stom for its artistic and theological implications. It not only showcases the artist's technical prowess but also serves as a visual exegesis of a key biblical event. The painting's presence in the Museum of Grenoble allows it to be appreciated within the broader context of European art history and religious painting.

See Also

• Baroque art
• Dutch Golden Age painting
• Chiaroscuro
• Gospel of Luke