Rebecca at the Well

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: nn Before us is Paolo Veronese's striking work, "Rebecca at the Well," painted between 1582 and 1588. This large and impressive canvas draws us into a pivotal scene from the Book of Genesis, depicting the moment Rebecca meets a servant sent to find a wife for Isaac. nn Veronese, a master of the Italian Renaissance, skillfully arranges the figures, drawing our attention to the interaction between Rebecca and the servant. Rebecca, adorned in flowing red and white, embodies grace as she offers water from the well. The servant, leaning towards her, listens intently, creating a palpable sense of connection. Notice the vibrant colors Veronese uses, the rich reds and blues of the clothing contrasting beautifully against the warm tones of the landscape. nn Veronese's mastery extends beyond composition and color. Observe the incredible detail – the textures of the fabrics, the weathered stone of the well, even the patient camel in the background. These details, rendered with remarkable realism, bring the biblical narrative to life before our eyes. nn "Rebecca at the Well," housed here at the National Gallery of Art, is not just a beautiful painting; it's a testament to Veronese's artistic genius and a window into the cultural and religious landscape of Renaissance Italy. The painting invites us to reflect on themes of faith, destiny, and the unfolding of a story that would shape history.