Artwork

Pharaoh gives Sarah back to Abraham

Pharaoh gives Sarah back to Abraham, by Isaac Isaacsz, oil, 1640
Pharaoh gives Sarah back to Abraham, by Isaac Isaacsz, oil, 1640

Pharaoh gives Sarah back to Abraham is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Isaac Isaacsz. It dates from 1640 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Pharaoh gives Sarah back to Abraham is a 1640 oil painting by Isaac Isaacsz, depicting a biblical scene. It is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the biblical episode where Pharaoh returns Sarah to Abraham after realizing the divine disfavor that befell him for taking her. The scene conveys themes of divine intervention and the restoration of moral order.

Technique & Style

Isaacsz employed chiaroscuro to create dramatic depth, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to emphasize key figures and details, such as the woman's green sash and the man's red robe, set against a muted, cloudy backdrop.

History & Provenance

Created in 1640, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Rijksmuseum is not detailed here, highlighting the need for further research into its provenance.

Context

Painted during the Dutch Golden Age, the work reflects the period's interest in biblical themes and the artistic innovations of the time, including the expressive use of chiaroscuro.

Artist & collection

Artist

Isaac Isaacsz

Isaac Isaacsz (1598–1649) was an artist, born in Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Rijksmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.