‘Abram and the Angel,’ by Frederic Leighton

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Abram and the Angel

Frederic Leighton

Produced after 1863, but not published until 1880–81

Proof wood engraving cut by the Dalziel Brothers, printed on India paper

7 x 6 ¼ inches

Illustration in Dalziels’ Bible Gallery.

Plate 7. In this design Leighton depicts the line in Genesis 15:5, when the angel tells Abraham that his descents will be as plentiful as the stars. [Commentary continues below.]

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The artist emphasises the contrast between the aged Abram and the youthful, idealized beauty of the angel; not only a matter of storytelling, this juxtaposition exemplifies the notion of regeneration. The contrast of extended hands (one old, one young) similarly projects the concept of new life springing from the old. The angel’s divinity is cleverly suggested by an aureole of light that acts as a halo, but is subsumed into a naturalistic light-effect; the light emanating through the opened door also contrasts with the night sky and reminds the viewer of divine enlightenment.

Bibliography

Dalziels’ Bible Gallery. London: Routledge, 1881 [1880].

Created 23 June 2026