Jozef vertelt zijn dromen aan zijn broers 1607

Giovanni Lanfranco made this print, "Joseph Telling His Dreams to His Brothers", around 1628 in Italy. Lanfranco visualizes a biblical story from the Book of Genesis. Joseph, standing under a palm tree, recounts his prophetic dreams to his brothers, who react with envy and disbelief. The print reflects the cultural and religious milieu of 17th-century Italy. During this period, religious narratives were frequently depicted in art to reinforce moral and spiritual values, and to instruct the public. The narrative is framed by Joseph's two dreams, represented in small circles on either side of the image. The brother's responses range from disbelief to anger, with one even picking up a rock. To understand this print better, one might consult the Book of Genesis, which is the primary source for the story. It's also helpful to investigate the role of the Catholic Church in shaping artistic expression and the circulation of visual imagery in Counter-Reformation Italy. The meaning of the art lies in the context.