The Tribute Money

"The Tribute Money" by John Singleton Copley (1782) is an Religious painting exemplifying Neoclassicism principles, yet innovatively portraying a modern biblical scene. Executed in oil on canvas, the work captures a pivotal moment where Jesus instructs Peter to retrieve a coin from a fish's mouth for tax payment. Copley's mastery in realistic detail highlights his versatility beyond his well-known portraiture, reflecting a synthesis of traditional religious themes with contemporary realism, characteristic of his later history paintings.