Hagar and Ishmael in the Desert
Historical Context
Hagar and Ishmael in the Desert, painted in 1732 and now in the Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice, depicts the Old Testament scene of Abraham's concubine and her son cast out into the wilderness. Tiepolo renders the desperate mother and child in the barren landscape with characteristic dramatic intensity, the angel's intervention providing the celestial counterpoint typical of his religious compositions. The Scuola Grande di San Rocco — famous for its Tintoretto cycle — also houses works by other important Venetian painters. Tiepolo's contribution to this prestigious institution confirmed his rising status in Venetian artistic life.
Technical Analysis
The painting showcases Giovanni Battista Tiepolo's luminous palette, with dramatic foreshortening lending the work its distinctive character. The palette and brushwork are calibrated to serve the subject matter, demonstrating the technical command expected of a work from this period.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the desperate mother Hagar and her dying son Ishmael in the barren desert landscape, with the angel's intervention providing celestial counterpoint.
- ◆Look at the luminous palette and dramatic foreshortening that bring intensity to this Old Testament scene of abandonment and divine rescue.
- ◆Observe the painting's setting within the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, the prestigious Venetian institution famous for its Tintoretto cycle.
