This painting by the Italian painter, Tintorello, illustrates Tamar as the one propositioning Judah in a sexualized manner. The biblical text does not support this interpretation of the event, but church history has unfortunately often presented her in this manner. Genesis 38: 13- 16 states that she covered herself with a veil, and describes Judah turning toward her and saying, “Come now, let me sleep with you.” The painting is constructed utilizing the technique of a turned-down triangle. This draws the eyes of the viewer down to the focal point of the painting. The downward motion also symbolizes a descent, in this case a decline in the morality of the subjects depicted. Scripture clearly presents Judah’s activities as evil yet declares the righteousness of Tamar.

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