Abraham and Isaac (reverse copy)

Abraham and Isaac (reverse copy) is an etching attributed to the school or circle of Rembrandt van Rijn, created sometime within the broad span of 1620 to 1900. Classified specifically as a print (copy b II), this work is a reproduction derived from a design by the Dutch master, likely reversing the composition—a common feature in copies made directly from existing prints. The scene depicts the dramatic moment from the Book of Genesis where Abraham prepares to sacrifice his son Isaac, embodying the biblical themes of faith and obedience that frequently engaged Rembrandt.

As an etching, the technique relies on the acid’s biting action on a copper plate, allowing for the precise lines and dramatic contrasts typical of the artist’s celebrated graphic output. While the central narrative focuses on the elderly figure of Abraham and his son, the broader compositional context sometimes includes secondary figures, such as Women or attendants, reflecting contemporary Dutch interpretations of the biblical narrative. The existence of this reverse copy, and its wide dating range spanning nearly three centuries (1620-1900), highlights the persistence of reproductive printmaking, demonstrating how successful designs continued to circulate and inspire artists long after the original work was created.

This historical example of graphic art is housed in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it contributes to the comprehensive documentation of European print history and the transmission of artistic ideas. The ongoing study of these historical prints, many of which now fall under the public domain, ensures the continued accessibility and influence of Rembrandt's profound compositions for contemporary scholars and art enthusiasts.