Christ and the Samaritan woman at the well Franz Ittenbach (1813-1879)

The composition presents a scene unfolding near a stone well, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and distant architecture. A man, centrally positioned, sits on a rough-hewn stone ledge, his posture relaxed yet attentive. He gestures with one hand while the other rests upon a staff, suggesting authority and perhaps guidance. His hair is long and dark, framing a face marked by a gentle expression. The clothing he wears – a simple tunic and cloak – indicates humility and a connection to the natural world.
To his left stands a woman, her body angled towards him in an attitude of listening. She is dressed in modest attire, with a head covering that partially obscures her hair. Her bare feet suggest a life lived close to the earth. A water jar sits near the wells edge, hinting at her daily task and the communal nature of water collection. The woman’s hand is raised slightly, as if questioning or emphasizing a point in response to the man’s words.
The landscape behind them contributes significantly to the overall meaning. The verdant hills evoke a sense of peace and abundance, while the distant city – characterized by its towers and domes – represents civilization and perhaps societal structures that contrast with the simplicity of their immediate surroundings. A large tree on the right side frames the scene, acting as a visual anchor and adding depth to the composition.
Subtleties in color and light further enhance the narrative. The man is bathed in a soft, diffused light, highlighting his face and emphasizing his presence. The woman’s skin tones are rendered with a warmth that conveys both vulnerability and resilience. The earthy palette – dominated by browns, greens, and muted reds – reinforces the connection to nature and the everyday lives of the figures depicted.
The interaction between the two individuals appears pivotal; it is not one of dominance or subservience but rather an exchange marked by curiosity and potential revelation. The setting itself – a place of communal gathering and sustenance – suggests that this encounter holds significance beyond the personal, hinting at themes of faith, redemption, and the bridging of social divides.