Benjamin West (American, 1738-
1820)
Mary, Wife of Henry Thompson of Kirby Hall, as Rachel at the Well, 1775
Oil on canvas, 50-1/4 x 40-1/2 inches
Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

An oil on canvas portrait painting of Mary Thompson as Rachel, from the Old Testament (Genesis 29:1-12), getting water at the well for her father's sheep. Jacob, her cousin, introduces himself and offers help. At the moment in the painting, Mary Thompson as Rachel turns to her right, facing Jacob, who stands behind her. A couple of figures, from the right of the canvas, look onto their conversation.

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