Triumph of Joseph in Egypt c. 17th century

Curator: This striking print, entitled "Triumph of Joseph in Egypt," was created by Matthäus Merian the Elder. Editor: The angularity of the figures and the detailed cross-hatching create a dynamic scene, almost vibrating with energy. Curator: Indeed. Merian, who lived from 1593 to 1650, situates Joseph's rise to power within a complex web of socio-political relations. Joseph, once a slave, now rides in a chariot—a symbol of governance—while a city rises in the background. This speaks volumes about societal mobility and power structures. Editor: And the horses! The artist’s lines convey such movement. It is like watching a parade in continuous motion. Curator: Absolutely, the print offers a powerful lens through which to examine themes of justice, social mobility, and the dynamics of power in 17th-century Europe. Editor: The texture and form push the limits of monochromatic storytelling. Curator: A compelling narrative, visualized masterfully through line and composition.