Artwork
Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac [recto]
![Jacob and Rebecca before Isaac [recto], by French 18th Century, chalk, 1701](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/french-18th-century--jacob-and-rebecca-before-isaac-recto--5393ee8d0dceb48c-w1024.webp)
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.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower right in brown ink: 242
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
Artist
An anonymous French hand of the late 18th century made portrait paintings and etched prints.











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