Abraham Casting Out Hagar and Ishmael by Pieter Lastman, Genesis 21:8-21, Bible.Gallery
Abraham Casting Out Hagar and Ishmael created 1612 nad was completed in 1612 Its dimension is 71cm wide and 48cm high and it was drawn with oil on panel style.
Artwork Description
"Abraham Casting Out Hagar and Ishmael" by Pieter Lastman is a compelling and poignant oil-on-panel painting created in 1612. The artwork brings to life a significant biblical passage from Genesis 21:8-21, depicting a moment of profound emotion and conflict in the life of the patriarch Abraham.
The composition centers on the heart-wrenching decision made by Abraham to cast out his slave-girl Hagar and their son Ishmael into the desert. The narrative unfolds after Sarah, Abraham's wife, miraculously bears a child in her advanced age, causing tension and jealousy between Hagar and Sarah. In response to the strained situation and at Sarah's insistence, Abraham is left with no choice but to send Hagar and Ishmael away.
In this intimate and emotionally charged scene, Lastman captures the raw emotions of the characters involved. Abraham is shown with a troubled expression, torn between his responsibilities as a husband and father. Hagar's face reflects deep sadness and vulnerability as she clings to her young son Ishmael, who appears confused and frightened by the abrupt turn of events.
The painting's composition draws attention to the vulnerability of the mother and child, who are portrayed in the foreground, while the vast and desolate desert looms in the background. The use of warm and earthy tones in the color palette enhances the sense of isolation and desperation, creating a palpable atmosphere of struggle and despair.
Pieter Lastman's masterful use of light and shadow further enriches the emotional impact of the scene. The play of light on the figures' faces and the landscape adds depth and realism to the portrayal, evoking a strong sense of empathy and compassion from the viewer.
"Abraham Casting Out Hagar and Ishmael" serves as a poignant reflection on themes of family, sacrifice, and human frailty. Through his artistry, Lastman delves into the complexities of human relationships and the difficult decisions that life can demand.
Overall, "Abraham Casting Out Hagar and Ishmael" is a powerful and emotionally resonant artwork that skillfully conveys a significant biblical narrative. Pieter Lastman's attention to detail, compelling composition, and emotional depth make this painting a timeless and thought-provoking portrayal of a profound and often overlooked episode in the life of the biblical patriarch Abraham.