The Expulsion of Hagar

Art Historical Context

*The Expulsion of Hagar an evocative etching by Giovanni Benedetto Cast (Il Grechetto), captures a pivotal biblical scene from Genesis 21. Here, Abraham reluctantly banishes his concubine Hagar and their son Ishmael at the insistence of his wife Sarah, only for an angel to intervene with divine promise. Created between 1646 and 1670, this print reflects the dramatic intensity of the Italian Baroque era, where Castiglione—a Genoese master influenced by Rembrandt—excelled in blending religious narrative with emotional depth. The involvement of Charles Massé suggests a collaborative printing effort, common in 17th-century workshops. As one of Castiglione's finest etchings, the work showcases the medium's revolutionary potential: acid-bitten lines create rich, velvety textures and chiaroscuro contrasts, evoking light piercing tension-filled shadows. Measuring 12 1/16 × 17 13/16 inches, its trimmed sheet emphasizes the intimate scale ideal for collectors. Figures—men, women, a loyal dog, and a protective angel—convey pathos and movement, highlighting Baroque themes of faith, exile, and providence. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1962, this Metropolitan Museum of Art treasure underscores etching's role in democratizing grand art, allowing intricate storytelling beyond painting. Visitors will appreciate its timeless resonance with stories of displacement and hope.

About the Artist

Charles Massé|Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (Il Grechetto) (French|Italian) · 1631 |1609 –1675 |1664

French, Paris 1631–after 1665|Italian, Genoa 1609–1664 Mantua