Artwork
The Sacrifice of Isaac
The Sacrifice of Isaac is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Paolo Veronese. It is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
The Sacrifice of Isaac is a 1593 oil painting by Paolo Veronese, a prominent Venetian artist associated with the Mannerist movement.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the biblical story of Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac, featuring Abraham, Isaac, and an intervening winged figure. The scene is set against a backdrop of trees, hills, and a bright sky with soft clouds.
Technique & Style
Veronese's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits contrasts between light and dark, highlights the figures' emotions and creates a sense of drama. The artist's characteristic stylized figures and dramatic composition are evident in the work.
History & Provenance
The Sacrifice of Isaac is part of the Museo del Prado's collection.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Paolo Caliari (1528 – 19 April 1588), known as Paolo Veronese ( VERR-ə-NAY-zay, -zee, US also -see; Italian: ), was an Italian Renaissance painter based in Venice, known for extremely large history paintings of…
