Jacob's Farewell to Benjamin

Jacob's Farewell to Benjamin is a poignant oil on canvas painting, attributed to a Follower of Rembrandt van Rijn (Dutch, 1606–1669), and dated approximately 1650-1660. This powerful work exemplifies the narrative and emotionally charged biblical subjects favored during the height of the Dutch Golden Age. The technique employed, characteristic of the 17th century school of Rijn, utilizes dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, often referred to as tenebrism, to focus attention sharply on the central figures.

The subject is derived from the Book of Genesis, depicting the sorrowful moment Jacob, patriarch of the Israelites, bids farewell to his youngest son, Benjamin, before his brothers depart with him to Egypt. Given the religious focus and strong domestic culture of the Netherlands during this period, intimate biblical dramas like this were highly sought after by collectors. Works emanating from Rembrandt's studio or close circle often prioritized psychological depth over grand historical spectacle. The close study of individual character and expressed emotion present in this piece reflects the pervasive influence of Rijn’s later style, emphasizing thick impasto and expressive rendering of age and grief.

This painting is a significant example of post-Rembrandt school production, demonstrating how the master's aesthetic continued to shape the art landscape of the Netherlands long after his direct influence waned. The canvas currently resides in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As this culturally important historical work approaches wider availability, high-resolution images or prints often enter the public domain, allowing for broader study of the technical legacy of Rijn and his followers. The detailed rendering and powerful emotional core ensure the painting remains a key reference point for understanding 17th century Dutch narrative art.