He Sent them out Two by Two

"He Sent them out Two by Two", painted between 1886 and 1894 by James Tissot, is a captivating work found here at the Brooklyn Museum. Tissot, known for his paintings of elegant women, demonstrates his artistic versatility in this biblical scene from the Gospel of Mark. The painting portrays Jesus sending his disciples out to preach and heal. Notice how Tissot depicts the disciples gathered around Jesus, their postures and expressions reflecting their individual responses to his message. Jesus, standing in the center with outstretched arms, commands our attention. The artist's meticulous detail is evident in the folds of the disciples' garments and the subtle nuances of their expressions. The hilly landscape and distant town provide a sense of depth and context, reminding us that this scene unfolds within a larger world. Tissot's muted colors and soft light create a contemplative atmosphere, inviting us to reflect on the teachings of Jesus and the impact of his message on his followers.