Saint Matthew 1886 - 1894

James Tissot's "Saint Matthew," painted between 1886 and 1894, depicts the apostle Matthew in a contemplative pose, his hands clasped in prayer. The composition is simple, focusing on Matthew's figure against a backdrop of olive trees, suggesting a serene, spiritual atmosphere. The artist, known for his meticulous detail and realism, captures the apostle's solemn expression and the texture of his clothing with precision. Tissot's "Life of Christ" series, of which this work is a part, was inspired by his devout faith and his desire to portray biblical narratives with historical accuracy and emotional depth.