Supper at Emmaus by Rembrandt

I haven’t been in the world of art lately.  I’ve been in the busy world of mothering, teaching piano and learning the ropes of a new writing job.

Whenever I get too busy, finding time to appreciate art is one of the first things to go.  It’s unfortunate, but understandable (I think).  Everybody gives up something when they are busy.  What is the first thing you give up when life gets too hectic?

One thing I love about viewing paintings is that you can’t run by them if you want to appreciate them.  You won’t get the story or the emotions that way.  You have to stop, think and admire.

So, since I’ve been too busy to stop, think and admire, I am posting one painting that always makes me do just that.

This is Supper at Emmaus by Rembrandt.  It tells the story of Christ after his resurrection.  Before the scene in this painting takes place, Christ has walked with disciples who did not recognize him.  While having supper at Emmaus, the disciples’ eyes are opened and they recognize who they are with.

I’m a sucker for the deep colors of Dutch painting, so I would love this painting even if I didn’t know the story.  But when I saw it at the Louvre, I took the time to sit and stare.  I noticed how Rembrandt used those deep colors to convey the dramatic understanding of the disciples.

This photograph doesn’t do justice, but notice how the light is brightest around Christ’s head.  It seems to gradually reach the men whose faces, when touched by the light, show a sudden understanding.

That symbolism can be taken in so many ways, but I love the idea of light.  When we are in the darkness of grief, selfishness, ignorance, hatred etc., we don’t have a full understanding.  When we look to truth and love, the darkness escapes as we enter the light.  I know that not all my readers believe in the same things I do.  But I want to share that, just like in this painting, I believe Jesus Christ is the light.  The light that brings truth, love and joy.