Artwork

Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac [recto]

Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac [recto], by French 18th Century, chalk, 1701
Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac [recto], by French 18th Century, chalk, 1701

Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac [recto] is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist French 18th Century. It dates from 1701 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This pen and brown ink drawing with wash over black chalk depicts a serene, intimate scene of a group under a rocky overhang, rendered in loose yet expressive lines with suggestive shading.

Subject & Meaning

The subject appears to be a biblical scene, specifically Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac, though the focus is on the quiet, everyday moment among the figures rather than dramatic narrative.

Technique & Style

Characterized by quick, sketchy strokes and expressive use of chiaroscuro, the drawing conveys a sense of movement and emotion, achieving three-dimensionality despite its rough, spontaneous appearance.

Context

The work aligns with Baroque artistic tendencies, emphasizing drama through light and shadow, though its intimate scale and subject suggest a more personal or study-oriented piece.

Artist & collection

Portrait of French 18th Century

Artist

French 18th Century

This artist worked in late 18th-century France, making portrait paintings and etched prints.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.