Naphthali, from The Twelve Sons of Jacob 1584 - 1594

"Naphthali," a 16th-century engraving by Dutch artist Jacques de Gheyn II, is part of a series depicting the twelve sons of Jacob. The intricate print, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts Naphthali as a man holding the antlers of a stag. This artwork is a prime example of the artistic trend in the 16th century to portray biblical stories with realistic detail. The use of hatching and crosshatching creates a sense of depth and realism, capturing the texture of the man's beard and the stag's antlers. The contrasting light and dark areas enhance the dramatic portrayal of Naphthali, a figure known for his strength and agility, much like the powerful stag he is holding.