Jakobs ladder / Jakob ontmoet Rachel 1716 - 1791

Editor: This print, made sometime between 1716 and 1791 by Pieter Tanjé, is called "Jacob's Ladder / Jacob meets Rachel." It's currently housed here at the Rijksmuseum. What strikes me is the sharp contrast between the dreamlike quality of the upper scene, and the more grounded, almost pastoral scene below. What catches your eye? Curator: Ah, yes! It is indeed a study in contrasts. For me, the magic resides in how Tanjé manages to weave together the earthly and the divine within a single frame. I see here not just two stories, but two states of being, really. Notice how the angels in Jacob's dream seem almost weightless, swirling around him. They’re visions aren’t they, almost born from the sleeping man's own subconscious. And below, we have a different kind of awakening, that earthier, love at first sight. Which scene calls to *your* heart more, hmmm? Editor: I think the meeting of Jacob and Rachel is really lovely, even more so! There is such a sense of potential in that first embrace. A new life. Curator: Precisely! And Tanjé captures that potential beautifully. But let's consider this from a broader perspective: these stories, allegories of faith and human connection, have been retold countless times throughout history. And yet, in this one print, he reminds us how art can show two realms as one. The daily miracle, and a blessed glimpse of heaven's grace, hmmm? What have you noticed that is interesting? Editor: The use of space - each section, how each relates to the other... it creates so many levels! Thank you. Curator: The pleasure is all mine, indeed. Each time we delve into such art we bring something new of our own. Always.