“Jacob and Rachel at the Well,” crafted by James Tissot circa 1896 to 1902, is a Symbolist religious painting executed with gouache on board. The artwork, measuring 26.4 by 21 centimeters, presents a serene yet dynamic narrative drawn from scriptural tales.
The artwork depicts a biblical scene where Jacob, a key figure, meets Rachel at a well. Jacob is illustrated rolling the stone away from the well, while Rachel, adorned in traditional attire, stands amidst a flock of sheep. The pastoral setting, complemented by the presence of other figures and a robust tree, emphasizes the serenity and divinity of the moment. Tissot’s meticulous attention to detail, combined with the harmonious color palette, enhances the symbolism and spiritual significance inherent in the composition.
