Isaac Meeting Rebekah–Esau Selling His Birthright, from "Dalziels' Bible Gallery" 1865 - 1881

Thomas Dalziel created this two-part wood engraving, titled "Isaac Meeting Rebekah–Esau Selling His Birthright", as part of "Dalziels' Bible Gallery". The composition is divided into two distinct scenes, each employing a dense network of fine lines to create depth and texture. The upper scene depicts a meeting, likely Isaac and Rebekah. A figure with outstretched arms dominates the foreground, set against an approaching caravan. The detailed rendering of the figures and animals gives the scene a palpable sense of movement. Below, the second scene presents a contrasting narrative. A figure reclines wearily, while another sits attentively nearby, perhaps negotiating the sale of Esau's birthright. The artist uses light and shadow to emphasize the emotional weight of the exchange. The stark contrast between the two scenes creates a visual and thematic tension. The detailed lines serve not only to depict the narrative but also to evoke a sense of moral contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of destiny, choice, and consequence.