#09754 Bernardo Strozzi (1581-1644)

The composition presents a scene unfolding at what appears to be a well or spring. A man and a young woman occupy the central space, their interaction forming the focal point of the work. The man, positioned on the left side of the frame, is seated with one arm resting upon his knee while extending the other towards the woman. He possesses a beard and long hair, and a halo subtly illuminates his head, suggesting a spiritual or elevated status. His attire consists of a red tunic adorned with a dark collar.
The young woman stands on the right, her gaze directed toward the man. She is dressed in a pink dress over a red vest, and her hair is neatly arranged with a headband. In her hand, she holds a large metal vessel, presumably for drawing water. The placement of this vessel suggests an action interrupted or a moment of offering.
The background is dominated by dark foliage on the left and a cloudy sky visible above. This limited backdrop concentrates attention on the figures and their interaction. The lighting is dramatic; it highlights the man’s face and upper body, while leaving parts of his form and the womans figure in shadow. This contrast enhances the sense of depth and directs the viewers eye to key elements within the scene.
Subtleties in the arrangement hint at a narrative beyond the immediate visual. The gesture of the man’s hand towards the woman, combined with her offering of water, implies an exchange or interaction that could be interpreted as either benevolent assistance or a moment of revelation. The presence of the halo and the mans demeanor suggest a figure of authority or spiritual significance engaging with a seemingly ordinary individual. This juxtaposition creates a sense of mystery and invites contemplation about the nature of their relationship and the underlying meaning of the encounter. The overall effect is one of quiet drama, imbued with an air of solemnity and potential spiritual import.