Maaltijd te Emmaüs

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

**Maaltijd te Emmaüs (Supper at Emmaus), 1671** Step into the intimate world of Bernard Vaillant’s *Maaltijd te Emmaüs*, a poignant depiction of the biblical moment from Luke 24, where two disciples recognize the risen Christ during a roadside meal. Created in 1671, this work on paper (243 × 310 mm) captures a pivotal New Testament scene that inspired countless artists during the Dutch Golden Age, blending spiritual revelation with everyday domesticity. Vaillant, a Dutch artist active in Leiden and Amsterdam, was part of the vibrant 17th-century scene influenced by masters like Rembrandt. His rendering on paper—likely a drawing or preparatory study—highlights the era’s mastery of monochrome techniques, allowing for subtle tonal contrasts and emotional depth on a modest scale. These works were prized for their portability and detail, often serving as models for engravings or paintings. A fascinating detail is the collector’s mark Lugt 2228, linking this piece to a distinguished 17th- or 18th-century European collector. It underscores the artwork’s enduring value, bridging Vaillant’s era to modern appreciation in museum collections.

About the Artist

Bernard Vaillant · 1632–1698

Comment on works: portraits; engraver