The Meeting of Abraham and Melchizedek

John Theodore Heins, a prominent painter in Norwich during the 18th century, created 'The Meeting of Abraham and Melchizedek' in 1736. While Heins is best known for his civic portraiture, having monopolized commissions in Norwich for many years, he also depicted allegorical and historical subjects, as well as genre scenes. This work exemplifies his venture into such historical narratives, a departure from the numerous portraits of local dignitaries and prominent families that fill his oeuvre. Heins, probably of German birth, settled in Norwich by 1720 and quickly established himself, with some of his early works signed 'D. Heins,' thought to stand for 'Dietrich.' The composition likely showcases his adeptness at rendering figures and conveying narrative, even if Joseph Strutt, an early biographer, criticized his mezzotints as being in a 'very stiff tasteless style.' This painting offers a glimpse into the broader range of subjects Heins tackled beyond the portraiture for which he was primarily recognized.