Giovanni Battista Tiepolo was an Italian painter born in 1696 and known principally for his many decorative frescoes adorning buildings in northern Italy. Thought to have been painted in the mid-1730s, Joseph Receiving Pharoah’s Ring is something of an exception in his work. It is based on the Old Testament story of Joseph who had been sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and was later imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. This painting shows the moment Joseph wins his freedom and is appointed to the role of Vizier, Pharaoh’s Chief Administrator. The far trumpeter is thought to be a self-portrait.
It’s a work full of colour, drama and fine attention to detail and is on show as part of the permanent collection in Dulwich Picture Gallery
