The Washing of the Feet, Oil on Metal on Wood Panel

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Oil on sheet metal, mounted on wooden panel. Central European School, 17th-18th century. In the scene, a wealthy lady assisted … Read more Oil on sheet metal, mounted on wooden panel. Central European School, 17th-18th century. In the scene, a wealthy lady assisted by her maids is washing the feet of an elderly man, under the astonished gaze of several other gentlemen. This is not the traditional evangelical washing of the feet, known as the anointing of Bethany, because the age of the man whose feet are being washed does not point to Jesus, but the gesture performed has the same significance. The washing of the feet is a gesture of service and humility, an act of servile submission that, following the example of Jesus at the Last Supper (but also of Mary Magdalene in Bethany!), has taken on a meaning of love and respect. The scene may refer to some unidentified historical-literary episode. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution See less