Bassano, Leandro – El rico Epulón y el pobre Lázaro Part 1 Prado museum

The composition presents a stark contrast between opulence and destitution, staged within what appears to be a grand domestic setting. A lavish banquet unfolds on the right side of the canvas, populated by figures richly adorned in elaborate clothing. They are seated around a table laden with food – fruits, meats, and bread – and appear engaged in animated conversation and jovial indulgence. The lighting here is warm and diffused, highlighting their expressions of contentment and abundance.
In direct opposition to this scene of plenty, the left side depicts a tableau of poverty and hardship. A woman, dressed simply, tends to a meager fire where a pot simmers over the flames. Nearby, a cat scavenges amongst discarded scraps, while a dog lies huddled with another impoverished figure. The color palette on this side is muted, dominated by earth tones that reinforce the sense of deprivation.
A central element visually connects these two disparate worlds: a peacock, its plumage prominently displayed, stands near the boundary between the banquet and the scene of poverty. This bird, traditionally associated with pride and vanity, seems to observe the unfolding drama with detached indifference. Its presence serves as a symbolic bridge, perhaps suggesting the disconnect between those who possess abundance and those who suffer want.
The architectural setting is complex, featuring columns that frame the scene and create depth. A draped fabric hangs from one of the columns, adding to the sense of grandeur. The background reveals a landscape with distant hills, hinting at a wider world beyond the immediate confines of this domestic space.
Subtleties within the painting suggest deeper meanings. The woman tending the fire appears to be offering something – perhaps a morsel of food – to a beggar who kneels before her. This gesture, however small, hints at compassion and potential for redemption. The overall effect is one of moral commentary, prompting reflection on themes of wealth, poverty, charity, and divine judgment. The artist has skillfully employed visual contrasts to create a powerful narrative that transcends the immediate depiction of two groups of people.