Christ Washing the Feet of His Disciples 1670

Curator: Here we have Melchior Küsel's "Christ Washing the Feet of His Disciples," a print held within the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It’s immediately striking—so much formality mixed with that raw intimacy of the foot-washing scene. The architecture feels almost theatrical. Curator: The setting certainly elevates the event. Beyond the obvious religious symbolism, the foot-washing also suggests themes of humility and service. Editor: Absolutely. And there’s something about the way the figures are arranged—some engaged, others turned away—that speaks to the complexity of faith and belief. Some are ready to serve and some are not. Curator: The architecture, the costumes, they reflect a clear cultural understanding of that era. Editor: It’s fascinating how Küsel uses that architectural grandeur to frame such a personal moment. It really makes you think. Curator: Indeed, an image that is both striking in its composition and rich in potential meanings.