Joseph Sold by His Brothers c. 18th century

Curator: Looking at this piece, I’m immediately struck by the overall muted palette. It gives the scene a certain timeless, dreamlike quality, almost like a half-remembered story. Editor: Indeed. This is John Skippe’s "Joseph Sold by His Brothers". Skippe, who lived from 1742 to 1811, illustrates a pivotal scene from the Book of Genesis, highlighting themes of betrayal, jealousy, and the brutal economics of power within families. Curator: There’s a profound sadness in Joseph's posture; you can practically feel his vulnerability as his brothers surround him. And the camels in the back–they add a strange kind of stoic indifference to the whole scene. Editor: They represent the traders, always ready to capitalize on human suffering. Skippe’s decision to depict this specific moment brings to the forefront the complicity inherent in systems of oppression and exploitation. Curator: It’s a somber reminder that even within our closest circles, betrayal can lurk. Editor: Absolutely, and hopefully, a call to action against the perpetuation of such cycles.