Who painted Jacob and Rachel?

Jacob and Rachel was painted by Antoine Coypel in 1701.

Where can I see Jacob and Rachel?

Jacob and Rachel is held by National Museum in Warsaw.

Artwork

Jacob and Rachel

Jacob and Rachel is an oil painting by Antoine Coypel. It dates from 1701 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

Antoine Coypel’s oil painting *Jacob and Rachel*, executed circa 1701, belongs to the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw. The work presents a tranquil biblical episode, rendered with a calm atmosphere and a balanced composition that draws the viewer’s eye across the figures and landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The scene portrays Jacob’s encounter with Rachel, a moment drawn from the Genesis narrative. Jacob, in a red robe, gestures toward an older man in blue, while Rachel, dressed in white, stands nearby. The arrangement suggests a dialogue about marriage and familial bonds, underscored by the serene setting that invites contemplation of the characters’ emotions.

Technique & Style

Coypel employs a smooth, academic brushwork typical of early‑18th‑century French history painting. The figures are modeled with subtle chiaroscuro, and the palette contrasts the warm reds and blues of the protagonists with the cooler tones of the surrounding trees, sky, and distant water, creating depth and a harmonious visual rhythm.

History & Provenance

Created while Coypel served as court painter to Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, and later to Louis XV, the painting reflects his role as a leading decorative designer of the French court. It entered the National Museum in Warsaw’s holdings in the 20th century, where it remains part of the museum’s representation of French Baroque religious art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Antoine Coypel

Antoine Coypel (French pronunciation: ; 11 April 1661 – 7 January 1722) was a French painter, pastellist, engraver, decorative designer and draughtsman.