Master of Affligem – Joseph is sold by his brothers to the Ishmaelites, the brother show the father of Joseph bloody clothes Part 3

The circular composition presents a narrative scene steeped in dramatic tension and emotional complexity. Here we observe a group of men engaged in a transaction involving a young man seated on the ground. The central figure, dressed in white, appears distressed, his hands raised in what could be interpreted as either supplication or protest. He is surrounded by several other men, clad in richly colored garments – crimson, pink, and ochre – who seem to be orchestrating his departure.
The foreground is dominated by the interaction between these figures. One man, wearing a red cap, appears to be actively pushing the young man towards the camel caravan that occupies the left side of the scene. Another, in a pink tunic, gestures emphatically, seemingly attempting to convince or reassure someone off-frame. The expressions on their faces are varied: some appear callous and indifferent, while others display a degree of anxiety or discomfort.
Behind this immediate group, a larger gathering is visible. Some men stand observing the proceedings, while others seem to be actively involved in loading goods onto the camels. A figure with a staff stands prominently near the caravan, possibly representing an authority figure overseeing the transaction. The presence of sheep grazing on a hillside in the background adds a pastoral element that contrasts sharply with the gravity of the events unfolding below.
The artist has employed a sophisticated use of color and light to enhance the narrative’s impact. The vibrant hues of the mens clothing draw attention to their roles in the drama, while the soft lighting creates a sense of depth and realism. The circular format itself contributes to the feeling of enclosure and inevitability, suggesting that this event is part of a larger, predetermined cycle.
Subtleties within the scene hint at deeper meanings. The bloody garments held by some of the men suggest an attempt to deceive their father, implying a deliberate manipulation of emotions and a calculated act of betrayal. This detail introduces a layer of moral ambiguity, questioning the motivations and responsibilities of those involved. The composition’s arrangement – the young man positioned low in the frame, surrounded by his seemingly dominant brothers – underscores themes of powerlessness and injustice. The overall effect is one of profound human drama, exploring complex issues of family dynamics, deception, and fate.