Abraham and Isaac, from "Dalziels' Bible Gallery"

Art Historical Context

This wood engraving captures the biblical moment of Abraham and, created by Simeon as part of the ambitiousziels' Bible project. Spanning nearly two decades from 1863 to 1881, the brought together leading Victorian artists to produce illustrations for key Old and New Testament scenes, with the Dalziel Brothers serving as skilled engravers and publishers. Solomon, associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement, infused the composition with a sense of quiet intensity and emotional depth, reflecting the era's renewed interest in religious narratives through art. The work exemplifies the refined wood engraving technique popular in 19th-century Britain, where intricate designs were carved into end-grain wood blocks to achieve remarkable detail and tonal range. Printed on delicate India paper and mounted for presentation, this print highlights the collaborative nature of Victorian publishing, bridging fine art and mass reproduction for wider audiences. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection of drawings and prints, the piece underscores the cultural significance of illustrated Bibles in shaping public understanding of scripture during the Victorian period. Its focus on the tender relationship between father and son invites viewers to reflect on themes of faith, sacrifice, and obedience that resonated deeply in 19th-century society.

About the Artist

Camden Press|Scribner and Welford|Dalziel Brothers|Simeon Solomon (British|American|British) · 1857 |1800 |1839 –1893 |1899 |1893

British, London|New York, NY|British, active 1839–93