Joseph, from The Twelve Sons of Jacob 1584 - 1594

Jacques de Gheyn II created "Joseph, from The Twelve Sons of Jacob," a print which delves into the complex character of Joseph from the Book of Genesis. De Gheyn, working in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, lived in a time of religious and political upheaval. In the context of the protestant reformation, biblical figures like Joseph were often reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. Here, Joseph is depicted with a turban, holding a bow and arrow, which seems to blend Near Eastern and European motifs. The inscription “Pulcher Josephus, foelix quòd si modò livor abfuerit: Superis denique charus erit” translates to "Beautiful Joseph, happy if only envy were absent: finally he will be dear to the gods". This suggests an exploration of Joseph’s identity as one who faces envy and adversity, yet remains faithful. In the image, we see Joseph as both a powerful figure and a man burdened by his fate. This print encapsulates the tension between destiny and individual agency, reflecting on identity, faith, and the emotional weight of leadership.