Object Description
An antique Neoclassical statuary marble statue of Rebecca at the well, signed and dated ‘ABO CIPRIANI FECE 1880’, from a private collection in London.
Dating to circa 1880, this expertly hand-carved sculpture is in excellent original condition. Of beautiful scale and detail, she holds the rope of a well bucket, while a jar of water sits at her feet; pearl jewellery hangs around her neck, and bracelets wrap around her wrists. Highly detailed, this statue would certainly look impressive on display in any grand, Neoclassical and Grand Tour style home.
Rebecca at the Well
In the biblical story, Rebecca went to the well outside her city and encountered a stranger who identified her as the answer to his prayers.
According to Genesis 24:11–22, the aged Abraham wanted a wife for his son Isaac and sent his senior steward to his homeland of Mesopotamia to find a suitable woman.
The steward stopped at a well and prayed for guidance during his tiring journey. When Rebecca came to get water, she offered it to the old man and his camels. He recognised her as the appointed bride and presented her with the betrothal jewels of a gold earring and two bracelets – both of which can be seen on this marble depiction.