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Giotto and his works in Padua, a non-fiction book by John Ruskin |
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10. The Watching Of The Rods At The Altar |
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_ X. THE WATCHING OF THE RODS AT THE ALTAR "After the high-priest had received their rods, he went into the temple to pray. "And when he had finished his prayer, he took the rods and went forth and distributed them; and there was no miracle attended them. "The last rod was taken by Joseph; and, behold, a dove proceeded out of the rod, and flew upon the head of Joseph." (Protevangelion, viii. 9-11.) This is among the least graceful designs of the series; though the clumsiness in the contours of the leading figures is indeed a fault which often occurs in the painter's best works, but it is here unredeemed by the rest of the composition. The group of the suitors, however, represented as waiting at the outside of the temple, is very beautiful in its earnestness, more especially in the passionate expression of the figure in front. It is difficult to look long at the picture without feeling a degree of anxiety, and strong sympathy with the silent watching of the suitors; and this is a sign of no small power in the work. The head of Joseph is seen far back on the extreme left; thus indicating by its position his humility, and desire to withdraw from the trial. _ |
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