Portret van Jozef Possibly 1616 - 1683

This engraving of Joseph, made around 1640 by Salomon Savery, presents us with a figure adorned in rich garments, a visual cue to his elevated status in Egypt. Joseph's story is filled with potent symbols of betrayal, redemption, and divine providence. Notice the elaborate collar, a motif echoing across time. Similar adornments appear in depictions of royalty and biblical figures throughout the Renaissance. This symbol has roots stretching back to ancient civilizations, where dress indicated power and authority. The collar, initially a practical garment, evolved into a statement of dominance, a concept Freud might attribute to our innate drive for recognition. This cyclical transformation highlights how symbols adapt and resurface. Joseph's opulent clothing is not merely fabric; it's a visual echo reverberating through history. By understanding the emotional weight embedded in Joseph's story, we gain insight into the human subconscious and the enduring power of images.