Artwork

Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well

Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well, by Unknown, oil, 1600
Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well, by Unknown, oil, 1600

Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well is an oil painting by Unknown. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum. This oil painting depicts a biblical scene featuring two central figures, Rebecca and Eliezer, set against a landscape backdrop.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting depicts a biblical scene featuring two central figures, Rebecca and Eliezer, set against a landscape backdrop. The composition includes a camel in a distinctive pose.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a moment from the Book of Genesis where Eliezer, a servant of Abraham, encounters Rebecca at a well, leading to her marriage to Isaac. The contrast in attire between Eliezer (striped tunic and leggings) and Rebecca (white dress with blue shawl) highlights their different roles.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, to create depth and dramatic tension. This technique accentuates the scene's emotional nuances and guides the viewer's focus.

Context

The scene is rooted in biblical narrative, specifically Genesis 24, making it a representation of religious storytelling through art. The setting, with hills and a cloudy sky, provides a naturalistic frame for the encounter.

History & Provenance

No specific historical ownership or creation date details are provided for this painting, focusing instead on its thematic and artistic elements.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

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