French school, XIX century.

French school, XIX century.
"Joseph and Potiphar's wife".
Oil on canvas.
It presents some faults in the margins.
Measurements: 58 x 76,5 cm.

Based on the scriptures of the Genesis, this work visually narrates the attempt of Potiphar's wife to seduce Joseph. We see here represented, in a palatial interior, the moment in which the wife of the knight Potiphar, tries to conquer Joseph, who flees terrified. The modesty of the young man, his face reddened by shame, contrasts with the sensual insinuation of the beautiful young woman. A canopy over the bed frames the scene, adding to its theatricality. Potiphar, who was a high ranking member of Pharaoh's court, had acquired Joseph, who had been sold into slavery. After his diligence, Potiphar, appointed Joseph head of the house, it was at that moment, when Potiphar's wife began to notice Joseph, trying to seduce him. Taking advantage of an occasion when the house did not have any of the men in charge, the woman insinuated herself to Joseph, who fled. However, upon Potiphar's return, the woman accused Joseph of attempted rape, for which Joseph was sent to prison. This scene shows the moment in which Joseph tries to flee, while the woman grabs him, trying to hold him.