Reflecting on "Jesus washes Peter's Feet" by Ford Madox Brown

Scandal! Outrage! The Messiah, the One everyone believed would usher in a new kingdom, restore Israel, and vanquish God's enemies, is kneeling to wash His followers' feet. 

This is the same Jesus whom the disciples sacrificed everything to follow—the One they witnessed walking on water, casting out demons, healing lepers, and feeding thousands with just a few loaves and fish. 

Now, He is undertaking the work of a servant. No wonder they appear confused and even horrified in this painting! Yet Jesus? He remains entirely calm, focused, and at peace with what He is doing.

It's the night of the Last Supper. Jesus did something unexpected. 

He got up from the table, removed his outer robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, poured water into a basin, and started washing his disciples' feet. 

When he reached Simon Peter, Peter was shocked and asked, "Lord, are you really going to wash my feet?" Jesus replied, "You don't understand now, but you will later."

Peter, still resistant, exclaimed, "Never! You're not washing my feet." 

But Jesus gently replied, "If I don't wash you, you won't have any part with me." 

That quickly changed Peter's mind: "In that case, Lord, wash not only my feet, but also my hands and head!" Jesus reassured him, saying, "If you've already had a bath, you only need your feet washed; you're clean. But not everyone here is clean," alluding to Judas, who would betray him.

After washing their feet, Jesus put his robe back on and sat down. He asked, "Do you understand what I've done for you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you're right—that's who I am. So, if I, your Lord and Teacher, washed your feet, you should wash each other's feet. I've set an example for you. No servant is greater than their master, and no messenger greater than the one who sent them."

Fast forward to the 1850s, when British artist Ford Madox Brown set out to capture this significant moment in one of his major paintings. He worked on it from 1851 to 1856, making various adjustments along the way. Brown painted the scene with a profound perspective, imparting an intense, dramatic feel. He portrayed Peter as an older, weary man, beaten down by the cares of life. A stillness about Jesus feels timeless, almost akin to figures in late Medieval art. 

Perhaps it is the medieval halo that the artist bestowed upon Him, or the stark white tablecloth framing Him, or even the way the floor seems to tilt upwards, contributing to the surreal atmosphere. It could be the sharp folds of His robe, the delicate outlines, or the care the artist took in slowly and thoughtfully painting every detail.

In the painting, Peter is depicted with his hands clasped in prayer, gazing at Jesus with a mix of disbelief and awe. As the Bible describes, Jesus, slender and humble, leans forward, gently washing Peter's feet with a towel tied around his waist. 

The other disciples are gathered around, not merely surprised but profoundly saddened. Some appear distressed—one covers his face, while another bites his hand. It's as if they're coming to the realisation that everything is changing and that Jesus might not be the kind of king they anticipated.

Despite the tension, one disciple is calmly removing his sandals, prepared for his turn. Brown utilised bold, contrasting colours: deep browns for Peter, dark greens and reds in the background, transitioning to the bright white of the tablecloth, which directs the eye to Jesus in a lighter shade of green

Traditional symbols are strewn throughout the scene, such as a pitcher under the table and a small purse—possibly alluding to Judas' betrayal. Judas, by the way, appears oddly indifferent compared to the others.

In the meantime, the other disciples are clearly struggling to understand what is happening. Some are rather dramatic—one has his hands on his head, while another is literally biting his hand. Others are more subdued, like the disciple in red behind Peter—perhaps John—who is merely observing and contemplating. 

They are whispering to one another, presumably asking, "What is going on?"

Brown employs a raw, realistic style in his painting. The background is dark, nearly black, which allows the figures to stand out dramatically. Some faces are barely discernible in the shadows, enhancing the sombre mood. Interestingly, he used real people as models, including Dante Gabriel Rossetti, another renowned Pre-Raphaelite, who appears as one of the apostles.

He was inspired by the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's admiration for medieval styles and vividly brings this scene to life. Observe Peter—how his drapery is painted, the realistic detail of his wet feet dripping, his posture, and his expression. 

At first glance, he appears to be scowling, perhaps even pouting, clearly uncomfortable with Jesus undertaking such a humble task. However, closer inspection reveals a softness around his eyes. His clasped hands, which initially seem resistant, begin to resemble a gesture of prayer. He may not fully comprehend, but he is making an effort. And despite his confusion, he allows Jesus to proceed because he trusts Him.

Brown wasn't merely concerned with religious scenes; he was also deeply passionate about social issues. He believed in showcasing the struggles of everyday individuals, particularly during the Industrial Revolution in England. His later works, such as 'Work' and 'The Last of England,' centre on the lives of labourers and emigrants confronting difficult circumstances.

This perspective adds another dimension to 'Christ Washing Peter's Feet'—it's not solely a religious painting but also a commentary on humility, service, and the dignity of all individuals, irrespective of their status.

Brown's distinctive approach demonstrates that even familiar stories can be presented in new, thought-provoking manners. His painting invites us to experience the emotions of that night—the confusion, the sorrow, and ultimately, the poignant lesson of humility and love.

We know how the story unfolds. We understand this is the Last Supper and are aware of the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. However, the disciples did not share that perspective. They were caught in the midst of it, feeling confused and overwhelmed. 

Yet Jesus met them right there in their uncertainty. He did not grow frustrated with their confusion. Instead, He continued to serve, recognising that it would require time, experience, and the Holy Spirit to help them truly grasp what He was doing. Through this simple, humble act,

Then there's Judas. Look to the left—he's the one with the money bag on the table, in the process of removing his sandals. Jesus washed his feet, too. 

What went through Judas's mind as Jesus gently cleaned the dirt from his feet? Was he ashamed? Annoyed? More determined than ever to betray Jesus because He wasn't the kind of Messiah Judas desired? 

And what of Jesus? How did He feel lovingly serving the man who would soon betray Him?

There is much to reflect upon here in this single act…