Hagar and Ishmael

Benjamin West

Created:
Movement:
1803
Neoclassicism
key Notes:
Dramatic emotion, Neoclassical composition
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Dimensions:
76 x 54 1/2 in. (193 x 138.4 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

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Hagar and Ishmael by Benjamin West (1803)

Hagar and Ishmael, painted by Benjamin West in 1803, is an exemplary work of the Neoclassical style, utilizing oil on canvas to depict the biblical narrative with emotional depth and dramatic composition. West, an American-born artist who became the second president of the Royal Academy in London, was instrumental in shaping the development of historical painting in the 18th and early 19th centuries. His ability to convey complex narratives through expressive figures and dynamic arrangements is evident in this work, which captures the poignant moment of Hagar and her son Ishmael in the wilderness. The painting reflects West's mastery in blending classical themes with contemporary sensibilities, contributing significantly to the evolution of history painting. As a prominent figure in the art world of his time, West's influence extended beyond his own works, impacting the practices of numerous artists in both Europe and America. His role in the transatlantic art scene underscores the cultural exchange between the Old and New Worlds during this period.

Description of the work:

Hagar and Ishmael by Benjamin West (1803)

The painting "Hagar and Ishmael" by Benjamin West, created in 1803, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the Neoclassical style, characterized by its dramatic composition and emphasis on emotion. The artwork depicts the biblical story of Hagar and her son Ishmael in the wilderness, showcasing West's skillful use of light and shadow to enhance the narrative's emotional intensity.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Hagar and Ishmael