The artwork, titled “The Pool of Bethesda,” was created by the artist William Hogarth in the year 1736. Executed using oil on canvas, this piece is a notable example of the Rococo art movement and falls under the genre of religious painting.
The artwork depicts a Biblical scene set at the Pool of Bethesda, where Christ is portrayed performing a miracle, healing the sick and disabled. The composition is rich with dramatic expressions and gestures, capturing the emotional depth and human interactions of the moment. Central to the scene is Christ, clad in flowing garments and with an aura of serenity and authority, surrounded by a diverse array of figures who evoke a range of human conditions and responses. An angel hovers above, symbolizing divine intervention. The background showcases classical architectural elements, with towering columns and arches beneath a partly cloudy sky, enhancing the grandeur and solemnity of the scene. The use of light and shadow, along with the ornate framing elements, reflects the Rococo style’s characteristic elegance and intricate detail.
