“The Good Samaritan,” a religious painting by James Tissot, is an exemplar of the Orientalism art movement. This artwork resides in the Brooklyn Museum, New York City, NY, US. It captures the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan, elucidating themes of compassion and altruism.
The artwork depicts a poignant moment in a barren, rocky landscape. In the foreground, a bearded man, identified as the Samaritan, is kneeling and tending to an injured man draped over his knee, who appears to be unconscious and semi-nude. The Samaritan, dressed in a green robe and turban, is positioned centrally as he supports the wounded man, reflecting a sense of urgency and empathy. In the background, a donkey stands with intricate adornments, suggesting readiness for a journey. The arid setting is marked by rugged hills and sparse vegetation, emphasizing the starkness of the situation and the isolation of the scene. The delicate yet detailed brushstrokes of Tissot bring authenticity and emotional depth to this significant biblical narrative.
