Artwork

Copy after the painting Joseph and his brothers at the Well attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper Church, San Francesco, Assisi

Copy after the painting Joseph and his brothers at the Well attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper Church, San Francesco, Assisi is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Edward Kaiser. It dates from 1876 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour painting is a copy of a fresco attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper Church of San Francesco, Assisi.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour painting is a copy of a fresco attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper Church of San Francesco, Assisi. Created by Eduard Kaiser in 1876, it reproduces the scene of Joseph and his brothers at the Well.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a group of figures in a dimly lit room gathered around a well, dressed in flowing robes. The scene is busy yet quiet, capturing a moment in time. The figures' interactions convey a sense of narrative, referencing the biblical story of Joseph.

Technique & Style

The artist employed soft, blended colours to achieve a dreamy, slightly faded appearance. The colour palette is muted, featuring yellows, browns, and greens. The overall effect is one of subtlety and restraint, evoking the worn appearance of the original fresco.

History & Provenance

The watercolour was created as part of a series for the Arundel Society in 1876. It is inscribed with the artist's name and the year. Although produced for publication, it remained unpublished.