Sermon of Mohammed Domenico Morelli (1826-1901)

The composition presents a panoramic view of what appears to be an outdoor gathering in a desert landscape. A central figure, clad in flowing white robes and a green head covering, stands elevated on a slight rise. This individual is the focal point, positioned to address a large group assembled below.
The crowd consists primarily of men, depicted in various states of prostration or kneeling posture. Their attire suggests a cultural context distinct from Western European traditions; they are dressed in white garments and turbans, with some wearing red head coverings that punctuate the otherwise monochromatic palette. The artist has rendered them with loose brushstrokes, emphasizing their collective nature rather than individual features.
The setting is stark – an expanse of sandy terrain under a muted sky. The horizon line is low, contributing to the sense of vastness and isolation. Light plays across the scene, illuminating some figures while leaving others in shadow, creating depth and visual interest. A small object, possibly a drum or other instrument, rests near the base of the elevated platform, hinting at an accompanying ritual or performance.
Beyond the immediate depiction of this gathering, several subtexts emerge. The posture of the assembled men suggests reverence and submission, implying a hierarchical relationship between the central figure and those who listen to him. The setting itself – the desert – evokes notions of spirituality, pilgrimage, and a connection to something larger than oneself. The muted color scheme reinforces a sense of solemnity and austerity.
The painting seems to explore themes of faith, leadership, and communal devotion within a specific cultural context. It is not merely a representation of an event but rather an attempt to convey the emotional and spiritual atmosphere surrounding it. The artist’s choice to depict this scene on such a grand scale further emphasizes its significance and invites contemplation about the power of belief and the dynamics of group behavior.