About this sheet
Feast in the House of Simon & Parable of the Sower, Pieter Mortier, ca. 1700
Original antique engraving from Histoire du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament, published in Amsterdam by Pieter Mortier around 1700. The plate presents two episodes from the Gospels, rendered with strong baroque drama and symbolic clarity.
The upper scene depicts the Feast in the House of Simon the Pharisee (Luke VII, 36–50). Christ reclines at table with Simon and other guests when a woman, described as sinful, kneels at his feet, weeping and anointing them with ointment. The engraving captures the contrast between the solemn meal, with richly set table and reclining figures, and the humility of the penitent woman. Christ’s calm composure emphasizes his authority and mercy, while the disciples and guests react with surprise. The architectural background, with colonnades and garden, sets the scene within a noble household.
The lower scene illustrates the Parable of the Sower (Matthew XIII, 3–9). A strong figure strides through a rural landscape, scattering seed across rocky ground and fertile fields. The distant background shows trees, hills, and birds, symbolizing the different fates of the seed—some devoured, some withering, and some bearing fruit. The parable, central to Christ’s teaching, is conveyed through clear symbolism, with the figure of the sower dominating the foreground.
Together, these engravings contrast Christ’s moral authority in personal encounter with his teaching through parables. Mortier’s engravers combine narrative detail with dramatic figural composition, making the works both didactic and artistically striking.
Condition report:
Good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Minor toning, light foxing at edges, and faint handling marks consistent with age. Images remain crisp and detailed.
Framing tips:
A cream or ivory double-aperture mat will separate the contrasting indoor and outdoor scenes while maintaining unity. A walnut or ebonized frame provides sober strength, while a gilt frame emphasizes the sacred themes, particularly fitting for the parable illustration.
