Joseph Identifying Himself to His Brothers

Joseph Identifying Himself to His Brothers

Pier Francesco Mola

1639

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching shows a group of people in a courtyard with a tall building in the background. Some are standing, some are kneeling, and one person in the center is reaching out toward a man who looks like he’s in charge. The scene is busy but orderly, with trees and columns adding depth. Notice how the artist uses shading to show the folds in the clothing and the emotions on the faces—it’s all done with lines and dark marks. This style was common in etchings of the time. Look up etching to see how artists like Mola created detailed prints with acid and needles.

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