Essau Selling his Birthright 

Etienne Delaune created this print of ‘Essau Selling his Birthright’ in the 16th century, a time of significant religious and social upheaval in Europe. Delaune, working amid the Reformation, presents a scene rife with questions about inheritance, value, and identity. At its core, this image tells a biblical story of two brothers, Essau and Jacob, and their struggle over birthright. Essau, the elder, sells his birthright to Jacob for a mere bowl of stew, a transaction that speaks volumes about immediate versus deferred gratification. Notice how Delaune uses the visual language of the time to depict the figures and the opulence that surrounds them. How might this affect our view of the decisions made? Consider the social and religious implications of this choice during the Reformation. What does it mean to relinquish one's inheritance, particularly in a society where lineage and status are paramount? This image invites us to reflect on our own values and the choices we make in the face of immediate needs versus long-term legacy. The scene reflects not only personal desires but also broader questions of faith, destiny, and the shifting sands of social order.