Shem, Ham and Japheth 1902

James Tissot created this watercolor, entitled Shem, Ham and Japheth, during a period of renewed interest in biblical themes in the late 19th century. This work offers a window into the complex intersection of religious narrative, cultural identity, and artistic interpretation of the time. As the sons of Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth are central figures in the biblical account of humanity's repopulation after the great flood. This image, however, isn't just a retelling of a familiar story, it reflects the social and cultural context of Tissot’s era. Look at how each figure is individualized through costume and pose, yet grouped together. What does it mean to depict these figures with such particularity, while also emphasizing their shared ancestry? How might this relate to contemporary ideas about race, lineage, and the construction of identity? As you consider these questions, allow yourself to connect with the emotional depth and cultural resonance embedded within this artwork.