3-016-169 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Joseph's coat brought to Jacob, c.1633. The tragic consequences, when Joseph's brothers turned against him, are described in Genesis 37:12-35. In his etching, the immediate news is being conveyed to the devasted Jacob, who throws back his head and raises his hands in horror at the sight of the coat. One of the sons, probably Reuben, is acting up the story, while his brother Judah is calmer, feigning concern. His bulky purse betrays the truth behind the deception. Leah, his elderly mother, stands at the doorway, staring open-mouthed, and nervously draws her hands together