Jacob Sends Messengers to Esau c. 17th century

Curator: This print, titled "Jacob Sends Messengers to Esau," depicts a biblical scene of familial negotiation and potential conflict. Editor: Wow, it looks like a storm brewing, both in the sky and probably between those brothers! The sheep seem to know something's up, they're really hoofing it. Curator: Considering its historical context, it's relevant to acknowledge that such depictions often served to reinforce patriarchal structures. Jacob's return and attempt to appease Esau reflects power dynamics within family and society. Editor: But look at the detail! You can practically feel the dust kicked up by those sheep. I wonder what Macé, the artist, was really feeling when he made this? Was he siding with Jacob, or hinting at Esau's justifiable anger? Curator: The artist is Charles Macé. Examining this work through a postcolonial lens, we might question the implications of portraying such biblical narratives, particularly in relation to contemporary issues of land rights and displacement. Editor: Maybe it's all about the universal fear of facing the music, of confronting someone you've wronged. It's messy, like life. I see tension, but also maybe a glimmer of hope. Curator: That tension is palpable. We can think about how biblical narratives shaped social norms around power, inheritance and reconciliation within familial and communal structures. Editor: I think I'll be thinking about the poor sheep though—hopefully Esau was a forgiving guy!