About this sheet
Optical Print of Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh’s Dreams, circa 1770 – Hand-Colored Vue d’Optique by Georg Balthasar Probst
This impressive hand-colored *vue d’optique*, titled "Josephus explicatis Pharaoni somniis, ad honorum gradus elevatur" (Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams and is elevated to honor), illustrates the dramatic moment from Genesis chapter 41 when Joseph rises from prisoner to high-ranking advisor by successfully interpreting the Pharaoh’s troubling dreams. This 18th-century optical print was produced in Augsburg around 1770 by renowned publisher Georg Balthasar Probst (1732–1801), one of the most prolific creators of such prints during the golden age of *vues d’optique*.
The scene is set in a grand palace hall rendered in classical architectural style, with a vaulted arcade, ornate columns, and checkerboard flooring leading the viewer’s eye into deep perspective—hallmarks of Probst’s technique to create a three-dimensional illusion when viewed through a zograscope or similar optical device. The reversed title at the top of the print is another characteristic feature of optica prints, meant to be read correctly through mirrored lenses.
On the right, Pharaoh is seated on a canopied throne surrounded by courtiers and attendants, listening intently as Joseph, standing center, gestures in explanation. Other figures, including scribes, guards, and noblemen, observe with admiration. The spatial depth, architectural fantasy, and detailed costumes of the court make this composition both visually rich and dramatically powerful.
Multilingual captions in Latin, French, Italian, and German reflect the print’s international distribution and popularity as both an educational and decorative object. This piece is a superb representation of biblical narrative combined with 18th-century theatrical and architectural artistry, appealing to collectors of antique religious prints, Baroque interiors, and visual storytelling through print.
Keywords: Joseph Pharaoh dreams print, vue d’optique Probst, hand-colored biblical engraving, Georg Balthasar Probst Augsburg, optical illusion print, 18th-century perspective print, Joseph interpreter of dreams, Pharaoh and Joseph Genesis art, antique storytelling print.
Condition:
Very good condition with strong, well-preserved hand-coloring and crisp plate impression. Slight age-toning along the edges and a few minor creases in the margins, typical of prints from this period. The margins are wide and clean, and there are no visible tears or repairs. The reverse title is intact and clearly legible.
Framing Tip:
Frame this print in a stately wooden frame, such as mahogany, ebonized wood, or gilded finish to highlight the regal theme. A soft ivory or parchment-colored mat will complement the architectural tones and bring out the lush hand coloring. Museum-grade UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the vibrancy of the colors. Ideal for libraries, study rooms, or interiors styled with antique or biblical themes.
