The artwork “Jacob Sees Esau Coming to Meet Him,” created by James Tissot between approximately 1896 and 1902, is executed in gouache on board. It belongs to the Symbolism art movement and falls under the genre of religious painting.
The artwork depicts a biblical scene where Jacob, donned in a white garment, is in the foreground looking out towards Esau who is approaching with a large entourage stretched across the landscape. The composition captures a moment of anticipation and tension, indicated by Jacob’s poised stance and the assembled group of people who appear to be discussing or questioning the approaching figures. The scene unfolds against the backdrop of undulating hills and a vast plain, emphasizing the scale and significance of the encounter. The use of gouache provides a luminous and detailed texture, contributing to the solemn and reverent ambiance of the painting.
