His Brothers to Ishmaelites, Joseph Sold, 1770

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Optica Print of Joseph Sold by His Brothers to the Ishmaelites, circa 1770 – Hand-Colored Biblical Engraving This vibrant hand-colored … Read more Optica Print of Joseph Sold by His Brothers to the Ishmaelites, circa 1770 – Hand-Colored Biblical Engraving This vibrant hand-colored *vue d’optique*, titled "Josephum fratres vendunt" (Joseph is sold by his brothers), offers a powerful and colorful depiction of a pivotal moment in the biblical story of Joseph. Originating from Genesis chapter 37, this print illustrates the dramatic scene in which Joseph is sold by his jealous brothers to a passing caravan of Ishmaelites. It forms part of a series of biblical optical prints that were produced in Augsburg in the late 18th century and designed for educational and entertainment purposes. Created and published by Georg Balthasar Probst (1732–1801), a master printer and engraver based in Augsburg, this print is a classic example of the *vue d’optique* genre. These perspective prints were made to be viewed through an optical device such as a zograscope or viewing box, which magnified the scene and added a three-dimensional illusion. As with many optica prints, the title text at the top of the plate appears reversed so that it would read correctly through a lens or mirror, a hallmark of this special form of visual entertainment. The scene is filled with expressive action. At the center, Joseph kneels before the traders as his brothers negotiate the sale, while others look on or turn away. On the right side, a caravan with elaborately dressed figures and loaded camels awaits to take Joseph into slavery. The background is richly illustrated with a vast desert landscape, trees, livestock, and distant hills and settlements. The foreground includes vivid garments, dramatic postures, and a chest presumably filled with coins from the transaction. Captions in Latin, French, Italian, and German broaden the cultural reach of the image, reflecting the international market for such prints. This antique biblical print is not only a visually engaging work of religious art but also a collectible historical object from the golden age of European printmaking. Keywords: Joseph and Ishmaelites, Probst optical print, 18th-century Augsburg print, vue d’optique, biblical illustration, Joseph Old Testament art, hand-colored religious engraving, Georg Balthasar Probst print, antique storytelling print, Joseph sold into slavery. Condition: The print is in very good condition with crisp plate marks and strong hand-coloring throughout. Slight age-toning and a few faint creases appear in the margins, typical of 18th-century paper. No tears, repairs, or staining affect the central image. The print retains generous margins and the reversed title is clear and intact. Framing Tip: To enhance its historical and visual character, consider framing this print with a simple but elegant wooden or gilded frame, ideally with a warm-toned mat such as ivory, cream, or parchment. Museum-grade UV-protective glass is highly recommended to preserve the vibrant hand-coloring. A deeper frame can subtly echo the original optical effect and is suitable for wall display in a study, library, or space with religious or classical decor. See less