Elijah and the Widow
The Elijah's stories have been an artistic subject for hundreds of years. Take a look at some of the artworks while you think about the story. The high quality photos may take a moment to load.
Louis Hersent - Elijah Resuscitating the Son of the Widow of Zeraphath
Louis Hersent, painting, unknown date 1777-1860
The use of light and clouds is significant in the painting. What do the light and clouds represent. How does the light intersect each character?
Where is each person looking? What does their body language say? What emotion do you get from this painting?
Bernardo Strozzi - Prophet Elijah and the Widow of Sarepta
What is in Elijah's hand? What is in the widow's hands? What is in the boy's hand? What does each item in each person's hand say about the character? Do any of the objects they are holding appear in the story? Where are Elijah and the widow looking? Where is the boy looking? What emotions do you get from this painting?
Giovanni Lanfranco - Elijah receiving Bread from the Widow of Zarephath
Giovanni Lanfranco, oil on canvas, 1621-1624, viewable at the Getty Center
The widow is offering Elijah bread. Where is Elijah looking? Why is Elijah on the ground? Why is Elijah supporting his own hand? What does his body language say? Where is the widow looking? What is she giving Elijah? What does her body language say? What does her facial expression say? Where is the boy looking?
How is this painting different than the previous one. Which do you prefer?
Louis Hersent, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Bernardo Strozzi, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Getty Center, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons