Rebecca and Eliezer 1620 - 1676

François Chauveau created this print, Rebecca and Eliezer, sometime in the 17th century. It depicts a scene from the Book of Genesis, set in a world steeped in patriarchal traditions and expectations. Here, Eliezer, a servant of Abraham, presents Rebecca with gifts, marking a pivotal moment in their arranged meeting. In a society defined by alliances and lineage, Rebecca's acceptance of these gifts is more than a personal choice, it is a binding agreement that intertwines her destiny with Abraham’s family. Chauveau’s composition evokes a sense of anticipation and consequence, inviting us to reflect on the agency, or lack thereof, afforded to women in such transactions. The emotional weight of this encounter resonates through time, reminding us of the complex interplay between personal desires and societal expectations.