De Verstandigheid Josephs in 't verzamelen van het koren c. 1705 - 1754

Jacob de Wit rendered this drawing, "The Wisdom of Joseph in Collecting Grain," with pen in gray-brown ink and brush in gray ink. Here, the artist depicts the biblical narrative from Genesis. Joseph's foresight in gathering grain during the years of plenty to prepare for the coming famine, is framed by frolicking putti. Note how these cherubic figures, seemingly playful, echo motifs of classical antiquity, where images of plenty and fertility were often accompanied by similar figures. The image of grain itself—a symbol of life, sustenance, and abundance—reappears throughout art history. From ancient Egyptian depictions of bountiful harvests to classical cornucopia, this motif represents the cyclical nature of life and the hope for a prosperous future. It’s a powerful, recurring archetype embedded deep within our cultural consciousness. Witness how such symbols transcend epochs, resurfacing, and adapting, each iteration resonating with new layers of meaning, and engaging with our collective memory.