Rebecca - Salvagnini (19th-20th century?)

This sculpture depicts a woman in traditional clothing leaning on a low wall and carrying a jug. The elements of the statue, reflecting the typical characteristics of the era, suggest that this is a representation of Rebecca. This myth, taken directly from Genesis 24:10-21, was very popular in the art world during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Near a well, Eliezer, Abraham's servant, prays for a sign to find a wife for Isaac. Rebecca arrives, and when Eliezer asks her for water, she offers him a drink as well as to his camels. Recognizing the divine sign, Eliezer gives Rebecca jewelry and asks to meet her family to propose the union with Isaac.

Through this sculpture, several elements evoke the story of this myth. First, the dress and shawl elegantly worn by the woman recall the typical attire of antiquity, the era in which Genesis takes place.

Like in the story of Rebecca, the woman in the sculpture is of great beauty. After the encounter with Eliezer, he covers the young woman with jewelry. These jewels are finely highlighted by the artist through the use of polychrome on the necklaces adorning the sculpture's neck.

Another interesting element is the ties that encircle the young woman's wrist. In Genesis, it is said that Rebecca is as beautiful as she is pure, and that she is still a virgin.

Like a cord of chastity, the cord that holds the jug and confirms that the young woman is leaning on the wall of a well would indicate that she is still untouched by any relationship.

Another possible interpretation is that of marriage. Thus, the young woman, without knowing it at the time, is destined for marriage with Isaac through her encounter with Eliezer, Abraham's servant. Here, the cord would represent the bonds of marriage.