Artwork

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

Copy after the painting Joseph and his brothers in  Egypt attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper  Church, San Francesco, Assisi, by Edward Kaiser, watercolor, 1875
Copy after the painting Joseph and his brothers in  Egypt attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper  Church, San Francesco, Assisi, by Edward Kaiser, watercolor, 1875

Copy after the painting Joseph and his brothers in Egypt attributed to the Isaac Master in the Upper Church, San Francesco, Assisi is a watercolor work on paper by the Biedermeier artist Edward Kaiser. It dates from 1875 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour painting is a 19th-century copy of a medieval work, *Joseph and his brothers in Egypt*, attributed to the Isaac Master in Assisi's San Francesco. Created by Eduard Kaiser in 1875, it is a study piece inscribed with the artist's name and date.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a pivotal biblical moment with Joseph, identifiable by his golden halo and green robe, seated among his brothers in Egypt. The composition conveys a sense of reverence and focus, with figures gesturing towards Joseph or a book he holds, symbolizing recognition or reconciliation.

Technique & Style

Executed in soft, slightly faded watercolours, the piece blends fidelity to the original with Kaiser's gentle brushwork. The dreamy quality and muted tones evoke an 'old feel', while calm, somewhat indistinct facial expressions maintain the work's contemplative atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Commissioned by the Arundel Society as a study, this copy remained unpublished. Its current location is not specified, though its creation details are documented through the ink inscription.

Context

Part of a 19th-century effort to document and replicate medieval art, this copy reflects the era's scholarly and artistic interests in preserving and interpreting early religious works.

Artist & collection

Artist

Edward Kaiser

Edward Kaiser (1820–1895) was an artist.