The Sacrifice of Isaac (detail) by Domenichino (Domenico Zampieri) (1627-1628)
The story we read in Genesis of the so-called sacrifice of Isaac exerts an enduring fascination. Domenichino’s account of the disturbing narrative highlights the dramatic moment when an angel thwarts Abraham’s attempt to fulfil God’s command to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac. The angel gestures downward toward the substitute sacrifice, the ram caught in a thicket. Nearby on the other side of Abraham, Isaac looks upward in acknowledgement of his deliverance. Abraham fills the picture to such an extent that his agitated figure dominates all those around him, and most poignantly his trusting son, Isaac. Against the background of a tranquil landscape, Abraham’s swirling draperies and commanding gesture reinforce our sense of horror and disbelief. Abraham’s outspread arms convey both amazement and gratitude that his obedience to God has ended with such a dramatic confirmation of God’s reward for fidelity.
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