The Meal in the House of Matthew

My name is Isabella, and I will be your guide today through one of our most impressive paintings: "The Meal in the House of Matthew." nn This painting shows a very special dinner party. Can you guess who is at the party? It's Jesus! And he's inviting Matthew, a tax collector, to join him as one of his disciples. nn Look closely at the painting. What do you see? nn --- nn Wow, you have sharp eyes! There are so many people in this painting! The artist, James Tissot, wanted to show how lively and busy the courtyard was that day. nn Do you see how everyone is wearing such colorful clothes? And look at all the food on the table! It looks like a feast! nn --- nn Now, let's find Jesus. Can you spot him? He's wearing white and standing in the middle of the painting. nn See how everyone is looking at him? He's talking to Matthew, who looks surprised. Jesus is inviting Matthew to follow him and learn more about his teachings. nn --- nn This painting is like a snapshot of a very important moment in time. It reminds us that Jesus welcomed everyone, no matter who they were or what they did. nn What do you think Matthew will say to Jesus? nn --- nn That's a great question! We don't know for sure what Matthew said, but we do know that he became one of Jesus's disciples. nn This painting is just one of many amazing artworks here at the museum. I hope you'll join me on another adventure soon!