Abraham casting out Hagar and Ishmael 1706

Frans van Mieris II created this etching, “Abraham Casting out Hagar and Ishmael,” in the 18th century. Notice the sharp contrast of light and shadow, a characteristic of etching which enhances the drama of the biblical scene. Van Mieris employs a high level of detail within a relatively small format, achieved through dense, cross-hatched lines that define form and texture. Consider the formal composition: Abraham stands centrally, a stoic figure whose stance anchors the emotional turmoil around him. Hagar and Ishmael are visually pushed to the periphery, emphasizing their displacement. The use of line directs our gaze, creating a narrative flow from Abraham’s commanding figure to the departing mother and son. This emphasis on structure invites us to decode how the artist uses visual language to convey themes of exile and divine will. Ultimately, this etching is not just an illustration but a structured reflection on familial duty and destiny.