Christ in the house of Martha and Maria Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675)

The painting depicts a scene from the New Testament where Jesus visits the home of Martha and Mary. In the composition, Jesus is seated on the right, draped in a blue robe, engaged in conversation with Martha, who is kneeling before him. Martha, wearing a red top and a blue skirt, appears attentive and engaged, with her hand resting on her chin, conveying a sense of contemplation. Behind her, another woman, likely Mary, stands and offers a basket of bread. She is dressed in a yellow vest and a light headscarf, and her gaze is directed towards Jesus, possibly listening to the conversation or awaiting instruction. The setting appears to be a simple interior, with a table covered by a white cloth, conveying a domestic and intimate atmosphere.
The painting explores the contrast between Marthas active service (represented by her role in preparing the meal, implied by the bread basket) and Marys contemplative devotion (listening to Jesus teachings). The subtext lies in the biblical narrative where Jesus commends Mary for choosing the better part of listening to his words over the practical duties of household management. The painting highlights the spiritual over the material, suggesting that attentiveness to divine teaching is of greater value than earthly tasks, even those associated with hospitality. The focus on the expressions and gestures of the figures invites the viewer to ponder this theological message.