PYNAS, Jacob Symonsz.
(b. ca. 1592, Amsterdam, d. after 1650, Delft)

Meeting of Jacob and Esau

1610s
Oil on copper, 25 x 31 cm
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

As Jacob neared the land of Canaan, he sent messengers ahead to his brother Esau. They returned with the news that Esau was coming to meet Jacob with an army of 400 men. With great apprehension, Jacob prepared for the worst. He engaged in earnest prayer to God, then sent on before him a tribute of flocks and herds to Esau, "a present to my lord Esau from thy servant Jacob".

Jacob is depicted kneeling before Esau, while behind him follow his family and servants. Behind Esau are his soldiers.




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