Juan of Flanders – Christ and the Samaritan woman, before Louvre (Paris)

The composition presents a scene unfolding at a well, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and a pale blue sky punctuated by sparse clouds. A central figure, clad in dark robes, stands with his head slightly bowed, gazing downwards. His hair is long and dark, falling past his shoulders, and his expression appears contemplative or perhaps weary. To his right, a woman dressed in vibrant red garments engages with the well. She wears a white headdress and her posture suggests she is drawing water from the source using a bucket suspended by ropes attached to an elaborate wooden mechanism above.
The artist has arranged the figures within a carefully constructed spatial arrangement. The man’s position is slightly offset, creating a visual asymmetry that draws attention to both individuals. The well itself acts as a significant compositional element, its structure dominating the central space and visually connecting the two characters. A secondary figure can be discerned in the background, partially obscured by foliage, suggesting an implied narrative or witness to this encounter.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, greens, and ochres – contrasted with the striking red of the woman’s dress. This contrast likely serves to highlight her presence within the scene. The light source appears to originate from the left, casting shadows that define form and add depth to the landscape.
Subtleties in the depiction hint at a deeper narrative. The mans downward gaze could signify humility or introspection, while the woman’s focused attention on the task at hand might represent her daily routine or perhaps a moment of quiet solitude. The presence of the well, traditionally symbolic of life and sustenance, reinforces themes of provision and encounter. The background figure introduces an element of observation, suggesting that this interaction is not isolated but witnessed by others. Overall, the painting conveys a sense of quiet drama and invites contemplation on themes of human connection, faith, and everyday existence.