This painting is a triptych, as Joseph had three important dreams, I highlighted the fact that Joseph was in a deep slumber, when he received these messages. Angels are represented by white curtains draping down on him, like the “Hand of God” blessing him. The angelic messages are shown in the windows.
“…..suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared in a dream and said to him, ” Joseph, son of David, have no fear about taking Mary as your wife, it is by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived this child.”
Matthew 1:20
“….the angel of the Lord suddenly appeared in a dream to Joseph with the command: “Get up, take the child and his mother and flee to Egypt.”
Matthew 2:13
“….the angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt with the command: Get up, take the child and his mother, and set out for the land of Israel.” Matthew 2:19