Joseph Sold by His Brothers 1600 - 1700

This 17th-century drawing, attributed to an anonymous artist, depicts the biblical story of Joseph being sold by his brothers. The artwork utilizes brown wash on paper to create a dramatic scene of betrayal, emphasizing the moment when Joseph is handed over to the Ishmaelites by his brothers. The drawing's small size, 10-7/16 x 8-9/16 inches, adds to the intimacy of the depiction, focusing on the emotional weight of the event. Currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, "Joseph Sold by His Brothers" serves as a reminder of the enduring power of biblical narratives in art.