The painting titled A Sermon on Charity shows a church setting filled with people who have gathered to listen to an important message. A man in a pink robe stands in front, speaking passionately to the audience. They listen attentively, showing their interest in his words. The church features tall arches and colorful stained-glass windows that catch the light beautifully. Sunlight streams in, illuminating the space and creating a warm atmosphere. Outside, green hills rise against the clear blue sky, which provides a peaceful backdrop for the scene. This contrast between light inside and darkness outside not only symbolizes hope but also encourages reflection on moral values. The artist, a Netherlandish painter from the Antwerp Mannerist period, has used detailed brushwork to capture the expressions of the figures, making them feel alive. When people look at this artwork, they remember the importance of kindness and charity towards others. It reflects the cultural beliefs of the time, when religion and morality were central themes in society. The painting, created around 1520 to 1525, reminds us that we all have a responsibility to help those in need. If we embrace these values, we can make our communities better places to live. This oil on wood painting is part of the collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where many visitors come to admire it.
B1 · Intermediate · 225 words · ~1 min
Netherlandish (Antwerp Mannerist) Painter · · Oil on wood · The Met

A Sermon on Charity
Word notebook · B1
Tap a highlighted word in the text, or study the list below.
- serene
- calm and peaceful; not worried
- depict
- to show or represent something in art or writing
- moral
- related to right and wrong behavior
- values
- the beliefs that guide our behavior about what is important in life
- community
- a group of people living in the same area or having shared interests
Comprehension check · B1
Finished reading? See how much stuck.
1.What is the main theme of the painting A Sermon on Charity?
2.Where is the painting A Sermon on Charity located?
3.Which style is the artist of A Sermon on Charity associated with?















































