Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery c. 1720s

Sebastiano Ricci's "Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery" (c. 1720s) depicts a scene from the New Testament where Jesus defends a woman accused of adultery. The painting's composition and the use of light draws the viewer's attention to Christ, who is shown in a calm and forgiving posture as he confronts the accusers and protects the woman. The scene is set against a backdrop of an urban square with classical architecture, hinting at the societal context of the event. Ricci, known for his mastery of Baroque style, creates a dynamic and visually compelling scene that explores themes of forgiveness, judgment, and the divine power of Christ.