Jozef verkoopt koren aan zijn broers / Jozef verklaart de droom van de farao 1615 - 1651

Editor: This is "Joseph Sells Grain to His Brothers / Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dream," an engraving dating somewhere between 1615 and 1651, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. It's fascinating to see two distinct scenes captured together in that distinct oval shape, that sort of diptych-feel, and rendered so meticulously. What do you see in this piece? Curator: As a materialist, my gaze is drawn to the process of production inherent in this engraving. Consider the socio-economic context: the paper, ink, and the artisan’s labor—these materials reflect a specific market. Note the contrast in the depiction of labour: on one side the toil of grain distribution and on the other, Joseph interpreting the dream before Pharaoh. What does that juxtaposition tell you? Editor: That the act of labor is a core point in understanding it. I notice how class and status dictates involvement: Joseph's elevated role means he is not physically toiling, while others are burdened by their economic circumstance. Curator: Precisely. The choice of engraving, a relatively reproducible medium, suggests wider accessibility and consumption. This connects to the themes: famine, resource management, and ultimately, power dynamics rooted in material needs. Are we looking at a religious interpretation, or perhaps social commentary about resource distribution? Editor: So, by looking at the "how" and "what" of the material, we gain a deeper insight into the societal values of the time, highlighting that perhaps there is a focus on the societal need for physical things which drove class. Curator: Exactly. By examining the materials and production process, we uncover layers of social and economic meaning embedded within the artwork. Editor: This approach really opens my eyes to art beyond just what is depicted, it can also showcase production circumstances and material relevance!