Joseph Being Sold to Potiphar

Joseph Being Sold to Potiphar by Jacopo Pontormo
Artist
Jacopo Pontormo
Date
1515 - 1518 ; Italy
Style
Mannerism
Genre
Religious painting
Location
National Gallery
"Joseph Being Sold to Potiphar" is a compelling religious painting by Pontormo, a master of Mannerism (late renaissance). Executed on wood using oil paints, it exemplifies his characteristic style with twisting poses and ambiguous perspective, creating a sense of floating figures. Departing from the calm, measured perspective of early Renaissance art, Pontormo's work embodies a profound stylistic shift that emphasizes emotion and ambiguity. The scene captures the biblical moment with heightened expressiveness, reflecting the emotional complexity typical of Mannerism.

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