Brooklyn Museum: European Art: The Meal in the House of Matthew (Le repas chez Mathieu)

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The Meal in the House of Matthew (Le repas chez Mathieu)

Portfolio/Series: The Life of Our Lord Jesus Christ (La Vie de Notre-Seigneur Jésus-Christ)

Jesus further shows his acceptance of those rejected by society by inviting Matthew—a publican, or toll collector—into his ministry, as he passes his booth. Not only were these tax collectors considered unscrupulous, but they were also particularly loathed by devout Jews for their status as representatives of the ruling Romans. Tissot has included camels and the hint of a wide-arched gate to underscore Matthew’s location at a geographical (and perhaps, spiritual) crossroads, as well as adding an Eastern flourish.

After Christ calls Matthew to his teachings, he takes a meal in the home of his new disciple, an act that occasions the suspicion of devout passersby. In answer to questions of his motives, Jesus merely replies that, like a physician, he heals the sick, not the healthy.

This text refers to these objects: 00.159.91; 00.159.94

Artist: James Tissot, French, 1836-1902
Medium: Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper
Place Made: France
Dates: 1886-1896
Dimensions: Image: 7 11/16 x 10 1/2 in. (19.5 x 26.7 cm) Sheet: 7 11/16 x 10 1/2 in. (19.5 x 26.7 cm)
Signature: Signed bottom left: "J.J. Tissot"
Collections: European Art
Museum Location: This item is on view in Robert E. Blum Gallery, 1st Floor
Accession Number: 00.159.94
Credit Line: Purchased by public subscription
Image: Overall, 00.159.94_PS1.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2006

Collections: European Art: The Meal in the House of Matthew (Le repas chez Mathieu)