Claude Macé (1631 - 1670 ) after Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (1609 Genoa - 1664 Mantua): Jacob returns from Mesopotamia and meets his brother Esau, 17th century, Etching

Technique: Etching on Paper

Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "Gio Benedetto Castiglione Genovese in. / G. Chasteau, ex cum privilegio Regis / A Paris Rue St. Iacques a L'Ange Gardien". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "Jacob ex Mesopotamia redux, nuncios et munera ad fratrem suum Esau mittit. Gen. 32".

Date: 17th century

Description: The picture presents a carefully crafted etching depicting a scene from a historical context. In the foreground, a standing male figure stretches out his arm purposefully, bringing a dynamic movement to the work. A group of sheep, accompanied by loaded donkeys and several smaller figures engrossed in various activities, fills the centre of the picture. A magnificently crafted tree frames the scene on the right, while a dramatically depicted mountain landscape forms the background. The scene depicts Jacob's return from exile and his first encounter with his brother Esau.

Source: Bibel (Altes Testament) | Book, Religion

Keywords: etching; historical; male figure; dynamics; sheep; donkey; mountain landscape; tree; activity; group; splendour; art; cultural history; scene; illustration; materiality; animal depiction; journey; work; beasts of burden, 17th century, Baroque, Biblical, Germany,

Size: Paper: 31,6 cm x 45,2 cm (12,4 x 17,8 in)

Rather good condition. Vertical creases in the lateral margins and on the right-hand side of the centre, torn from the lower edge. Faint soiling recognisable in the lighter areas. Some creasing and occasional slight bumping along the right edge of the sheet. The image makes a very good impression.

31.6 x 45.2 cm