The Publican and the Pharisee

The painting illustrates the Parable of the haughty Pharisee and the pious Publican recounted by Jesus in Luke 18. The proud Pharisee stands directly in front of the altarpiece dressed in a magnificent, ceremonial gown. Several columns support the vaulted ceiling of temple interior that is shown in one point perspective. A plaque is attached to the column at the left in the middle ground, bearing the words of the Pharisee in Latin. In translation they read as follows:¿ I thank you Lord that I am not like the others'. Between the columns and the altarpiece three men are conversing, while in the background a group of traders go about their business. The Publican enters from the right; he has removed his hat and bows his head, while placing his hand ruefully on his chest. A column next to the entrance displays a plaque with his words, which translated read: 'Lord, please have mercy on this sinner'.

[Görres, cda 2016]