Artheon MuseumArtheonMuseum

The Angels Appearing to Abraham

The Angels Appearing to Abraham by Francesco Guardi (Italian, 1712–1793)

Medium

oil on canvas

Dimensions

unframed: 56.5 × 75.5 cm · framed: 71 × 90.5 × 7 cm

Classification

Painting

Department

European Painting and Sculpture

Museum

Cleveland Museum of Art

Credit

Mr. and Mrs. William H. Marlatt Fund

Accession Number

1952.235.3

Tags

male

About this artwork

After their initial meeting, Abraham graciously offered to feed the angels and wash their feet. Following the meal, they announce that his wife Sarah, long past child-bearing age, will soon have a son, fulfilling a promise God had made earlier to Abraham. The artist presents the moment of revelation, the angels resplendent in their pastel gowns and feathery wings, with Sarah learning the news while hiding behind their cottage door.

    Send Feedback

    We use this only to reply to your feedback.