Magnasco Alessandro (nicknamed Lissandrino) (Genoa 1667-1749) – Christ and the Samaritan Woman (145x109 cm) 1705-10 J. Paul Getty Museum

The composition presents a scene unfolding within a decaying architectural framework. A monumental archway dominates the left side of the canvas, its brickwork heavily weathered and partially obscured by encroaching vegetation. Through this opening, a distant cityscape is visible, bathed in a soft, diffused light that contrasts with the shadowed foreground. The architecture suggests a classical ruin, lending an air of antiquity and perhaps even melancholy to the narrative.
At the center of the scene stands a well, its construction seemingly integrated into the crumbling stonework. A woman, clad in simple garments, is actively engaged in drawing water from the well using a rope and bucket. Her posture conveys exertion, yet her gaze appears directed elsewhere, suggesting a preoccupation beyond the immediate task. Two other figures are positioned near the well; one, an older man with a weathered face, sits hunched over, seemingly observing the woman’s actions. The third figure is partially obscured but appears to be another individual engaged in domestic tasks, possibly collecting water in vessels placed nearby.
To the right of the well, a central figure stands within a niche formed by a column and a stone structure. This personage, distinguished by their attire and demeanor, engages in conversation with the woman at the well. The gesture of this figure – a raised hand – suggests an act of teaching or imparting wisdom. A draped cloth lies near the base of the column, adding to the sense of stillness and quiet contemplation within this enclosed space.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted greens – which contribute to the overall atmosphere of age and decay. The light source appears to originate from beyond the archway, casting deep shadows that accentuate the textures of the stone and fabric. This interplay of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, drawing attention to the central figures while simultaneously emphasizing the dilapidated setting.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of faith, redemption, and social interaction within a context of decline. The ruined architecture could symbolize the transient nature of earthly power or institutions, contrasting with the enduring spiritual message being conveyed through the encounter between the two main characters. The woman’s distracted gaze might represent a moment of internal questioning or revelation prompted by the conversation. The presence of the older man suggests an element of observation and perhaps even judgment within this small community. Overall, the work evokes a sense of quiet drama and invites contemplation on the intersection of human experience and divine grace amidst the vestiges of a forgotten past.