Jozef en de vrouw van Potifar 1726

Felice Ramelli created this small painting on copper entitled "Jozef en de vrouw van Potifar," an Old Testament story, sometime between the late 17th and early 18th century. Ramelli was active in a historical moment where the cultural elite still very much set the tone for the rest of society. The scene captures the moment when Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce Joseph. Her pale, bare skin contrasts starkly with Joseph's covered body and his expression of distress. This portrayal reflects the period's views on gender and morality, where female desire was often depicted as a dangerous force. The narrative suggests that Joseph’s virtue lies in his refusal, reinforcing the patriarchal structures which prevailed at the time. The opulence of the setting, complete with heavy drapes and cherubic figures, further emphasizes the power dynamics at play. The painting provides insight into the era’s social and moral codes. It invites us to consider the lasting impacts of these historical representations on contemporary discussions about consent, power, and gender.