The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes (La multiplication des pains)

As news of Jesus’ teachings and deeds spread, his followers grew in number. Without adequate provisions to feed them, Jesus gathers five loaves and two fishes from a young boy in this large company, and after giving thanks to God, distributes them, managing to feed all who are hungry.

Tissot offers an expansive view of the scene, one so broad that it becomes difficult to distinguish Jesus himself, at the upper right. However, this compositional strategy emphasizes the magnitude of the miracle as well as the multitude of Jesus’ followers, who fill the paths of the terraced hills.