Isaac Blessing Jacob
Original title: Isaac Blessing Jacob
kurzbeschreibung
Blind Isaac gives his blessing to his son Jacob, a biblical scene that Agostino Veneziano engraved in 1524. The print measures 22.9 x 31.2 cm and comes from the workshop of Marcantonio Raimondi.
Description
An interior with columns and curtains frames the assembled group. Isaac lies on a bed with his hand raised, while Jacob kneels before him holding a bowl. The figures standing around react in different ways, from surprise to neutral expressions. Plants and architectural elements can be seen in the background. The arrangement feels symmetrical.
Context
Agostino Veneziano, also known as Agostino dei Musi, was an Italian engraver of the Renaissance who worked in the workshop of Marcantonio Raimondi. This print was made in Rome in 1524 and belongs to a series of biblical scenes. It is based on the story from the first book of Moses, in which Jacob receives his father Isaac's blessing.
Impact
Delicate lines and a strong contrast of light and dark heighten the drama of the event. The symmetrical layout draws the eye to the meeting of Isaac and Jacob and creates a calm, solemn mood.
Technique
For an engraving, lines are cut into a copper plate and then printed. Shading comes from fine cross-hatching, which gives the image depth and a sense of volume. The monochrome printing process emphasizes the graphic quality of the view.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)