Gehistorieerde initiaal J met de kuisheid van Jozef als hij vlucht voor de vrouw van Potifar 1635 - 1694

Dirck de Bray created this tiny historiated initial 'J' using pen in the late 17th century, presenting the biblical scene of Joseph fleeing Potiphar's wife. Despite its scale, the composition is dynamic. Note the stark contrast between the static figure of Potiphar's wife and Joseph's hasty retreat. The artist uses the letter 'J' not merely as a frame but as a structural element that integrates with the narrative. The curve of the 'J' subtly echoes the draped fabric and the reclining pose of the woman, while the verticality opposes Joseph's active movement. The density of line work creates areas of deep shadow, heightening the drama and spatial depth within this miniature format. This interplay between form and content invites us to consider how even the smallest details can convey complex themes of morality and human behavior. The use of this tiny initial transforms the architecture of a letter into a stage for human drama.