Joseph Resists TemptationSold by his brothers into slavery in Egypt, Joseph has risen in the ranks during his service in the house of Potiphar, a royal courtier. Joseph has gained the implicit trust of his master and been given the run of the house. Only Potiphar's wife is off limits for Joseph. While his conduct is unimpeachable, the mistress of the house has other things in mind.
Rembrandt has chosen to illustrate two distinct moments in the Joseph and Potiphar's wife narrative. In the etching, he portrays Joseph escaping the lecherous clutches of Potiphar's wife. He forcefully pulls away from her grasp. The viewer is duly impressed that the innocent youth is capable of resisting temptation. The canvas painting captures the next scene in the drama when Mrs. Potiphar accuses Joseph of a crime he did not commit, venting her anger, frustration and desire for revenge.
In the painting Joseph is enveloped in numinous light. Rembrandt has captured Joseph's expression of humility and innocence. The disgruntled wife of Potiphar points accusingly at Joseph's cloak. Potiphar is positioned parallel to Joseph and listens to her malicious harangue with an apathetic glance. Introduction >> |
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