Jacob Blessing the Sons of Joseph

At the Late Rembrandt exhibition, I was deeply moved by the painting Jacob Blessing the Sons of Joseph. What struck me most was the boldness in the painting technique. When you zoom in on Asenath, Joseph’s wife, you notice how roughly, even muddily, her hands are rendered. Other elements — like the bedposts — are similarly coarse.

Yet the painting as a whole is breathtaking. It shows that an excess of detail doesn’t necessarily make a painting better. On the contrary — this work radiates atmosphere, emotion, and presence.

The impression it left on me was so strong that I travelled for an entire weekend to Kassel, Germany, where the original painting normally resides. There, a very kind museum guard gave me full support, even adjusting the lighting, so I could be alone with the original and study it in peace.

My own study was created with the same commitment to historical authenticity — starting with raw linen, prepared with animal glue, and using genuine 17th-century techniques including lead white in the highlights. The shadowed areas were painted with extremely thin layers, while the brightest parts were heightened with impasto, just as Rembrandt would have done.

The frame was also carefully made after the original example. The ornaments were applied by hand using a special historical material, pressed from centuries-old moulds by a renowned Dutch frame maker who works for museums worldwide, and who has also crafted frames for original Rembrandts in the Hermitage.

Including the frame, the painting measures approximately 244 x 200 cm — a truly striking presence on any wall.

The work is still available. Please feel free to inquire about availability and transport options.