The Blind Men Of Jericho 1650 - 1700

Nicolas Poussin’s, The Blind Men of Jericho presents a biblical narrative, rendered in a classical style. Poussin, working in the 17th century, was deeply influenced by classical antiquity and the Renaissance. The painting depicts Jesus healing two blind men, a scene loaded with socio-cultural implications. In the historical context of the 17th century, blindness carried not only physical challenges, but also social stigmas. Disability often meant exclusion and dependency. Poussin, however, uses the moment of healing to address themes of faith and redemption. He invites us to consider the perspectives of those living on the margins of society, the impact of their inclusion, and the cultural dynamics that shape their identities. The figures in the painting are rendered with a sense of emotional depth. The blind men, kneeling in supplication, convey their vulnerability and hope. The work prompts reflection on how we, as a society, perceive and treat those who are different, challenging viewers to see beyond the surface.