An angel appearing to Hagar
Medium
Etching
Dimensions
Sheet (Trimmed): 13 11/16 × 19 1/8 in. (34.7 × 48.5 cm)
Classification
Prints
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, 1951
Accession Number
51.501.3210
Tags
Art Historical Context
This etching, titled *An angel appearing to Hagar*, captures a poignant biblical moment from the Book of Genesis. Hagar, cast into the wilderness with her young son Ishmael, receives divine comfort and guidance from an angel. The composition highlights the emotional encounter between the vulnerable mother and child and the celestial messenger, rendered with sensitivity to human tenderness and spiritual reassurance. Created as an etching—a technique prized in the 18th century for its ability to convey fine lines and dramatic contrasts—this print after designs by Simone Cantarini reflects the e...
About the Artist
Simone Cantarini|Pietro Monaco · 1612–1648
He was one of the most eminent pupils of Guido Reni and one of the most gifted engravers in the tradition of the Carracci. He had a strong personality and developed a highly original style, which united aspects of Bolognese classicism with a bold naturalism. Comment on works: Religious