Abraham's Sacrifice

Abraham’s Sacrifice, created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1655, is a masterful example of the artist’s mature printmaking style, utilizing both etching and drypoint. This powerful composition depicts the terrifying climax of the biblical narrative from Genesis 22, where Abraham is commanded by God to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Rijn captures the precise moment the saving angel intervenes, grabbing Abraham's wrist mid-swing to halt the deadly descent of the knife.

The artist carefully orchestrates the drama using his technical expertise. The etching provides the fine, controlled lines defining the figures and setting, while the drypoint technique lends richness and velvety depth, particularly in the darkest shadows, intensifying the emotional exchange between father, son, and divine messenger. Rijn’s deliberate use of light isolates the central action—the angel’s hand arresting the movement—highlighting the tension and terror of the moment. Isaac, already bound and placed upon the altar, appears vulnerable and utterly reliant on the swift intervention.

As a leading figure in Dutch culture, Rijn frequently explored the intersection of profound human emotion and divine command in his prints. This religious theme was central to the artistic output of the 1651 to 1700 period in the Netherlands, reflecting an intense focus on personal faith and dramatic realism.

This work is recognized among Rijn’s most expressive prints, demonstrating his unparalleled capacity to render psychological intensity through line and shade. The nature of these prints allowed for wider distribution, impacting audiences far beyond traditional painting patrons. Because of its age and profound cultural significance, high-resolution reproductions of this image are often available in the public domain for academic study and appreciation. This impression of Abraham’s Sacrifice is held in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art.