Study of Rebecca at the Well c. 16th century

This is Paolo Veronese’s study of Rebecca at the Well. Here, Rebecca is depicted at a well, an iconographic symbol of purity and divine providence in the Abrahamic religions. In this image, we see Rebecca at the well, a gesture resonant with meaning across cultures and epochs, suggesting modesty, grace, and the life-sustaining act of giving water. This echoes motifs found in ancient Roman depictions of water nymphs. Her posture of offering descends from classical antiquity—the offering, or 'obligatio', is a gesture of humility, or supplication, suggesting the divine, linking it to earlier traditions. Yet, this symbol isn't static; it evolves. In later art, the image of a woman at a well can also be seen as a symbol of secret knowledge or hidden depths. The image thus engages us on a deep, subconscious level, drawing us into a narrative of generosity, virtue, and hidden potential. It is a powerful force, as it evokes both a connection to the ancient world and a sense of the enduring human values of kindness and service. The meaning of this image has gone through a cyclical progression, constantly resurfacing and taking on new meanings throughout history.