De maaltijd te Emmaüs

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 240

Art Historical Context

**De Maaltijd te EmmaüsThe Supper at Emmaus Created by Dutch artist Jacobus Buys 1765, this captures the poignant biblical moment from Luke 24, where the resurrected Christ reveals himself to two disciples during a meal in Emmaüs. Buys (1724–1801), a skilled painter and printmaker active in 18th-century Amsterdam, on a long tradition of depicting this scene—famously immortalized by Rembrandt—to evoke themes of recognition, faith, and divine mystery. At 245 × 194 mm, its intimate scale invites close contemplation, perfect for personal devotion or scholarly collections. Etching, Buys's chosen medium, involved drawing acid-resistant lines on a copper plate, allowing for intricate details and tonal depth through subtle biting and inking. This technique democratized art in the Enlightenment era, enabling affordable reproductions that spread religious imagery beyond elite patrons. The print bears the collector's mark Lugt 240, identifying ownership by Pieter Cornelis, Baron van Leyden (1717–1778), a prominent Dutch connoisseur whose stamp underscores its historical value. Buys's work reflects the refined Rococo sensibilities of his time, blending dramatic light with emotional intimacy. A gem for visitors, it reminds us how prints like this bridged art, spirituality, and collecting in the Dutch Republic's vibrant cultural scene.

About the Artist

Jacobus Buys · 1724–1801

Comment on works: Portraits; History; Genre; Vignettes