The Sacrifice of Isaac

The artwork The Sacrifice of Isaac is a painting created by Peter Paul Rubens between 1612 and 1613. Currently housed in The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the painting measures 1.1049 meters in width and 1.4097 meters in height.

The painting depicts the biblical story of the Binding of Isaac. In the center, Abraham, clad in a vibrant red robe, raises a dagger to sacrifice his son Isaac, who kneels before him with a look of fear and resignation. Isaac is nude, save for a white loincloth, emphasizing his vulnerability. Above them, an angel sent by God swoops down, grabbing Abraham's arm to prevent the sacrifice. The angel's expression is urgent, conveying the gravity of the situation. The background features a dimly lit landscape with a ram caught in a thicket, representing the substitute sacrifice God provided. The dramatic use of light and shadow, along with the dynamic composition, highlights the emotional intensity of the scene.