Christ Healing Daughter of Woman of Canaan
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Accession Number
1896-31-20
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
In the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection *Christ Healing the Daughter of the Woman of Canaan*ca. 1650) is a striking print by French artist Michel Lasne (ca. 1590–1667). This work depicts a pivotal biblical miracle from the Gospel of Matthew (15:21–28), where Jesus heals the tormented daughter of a Canaanite through her persistent faith. Lasne, a prominent engraver of his time, captures this moment of divine compassion, emphasizing themes of mercy and inclusion that resonated deeply in 17th-century Catholic Europe amid the Counter-Reformation. As a print, the artwork exemplifies the era's innovative reproductive techniques, allowing religious imagery to reach wide audiences beyond elite patrons. Lasne's meticulous engraving—likely executed with fine lines and intricate shading—highlights the dramatic interplay of figures, light, and emotion typical of French Baroque influences. Such prints served not only as devotional aids but also as tools for spiritual education in households and churches. Though research on this specific piece continues, it stands as a testament to Lasne's skill in translating sacred narratives into accessible art, inviting visitors to reflect on enduring stories of faith and healing.