The artwork “Abraham, Abraham! (Genesis 22:2)” was created by Salvador Dali between 1964 and 1967. This piece forms part of the “The Biblia Sacra” series and represents religious themes. Dali, renowned for his contributions to Abstract Expressionism and Symbolism, employs both movements to craft this religious painting, infusing it with layers of symbolic meaning.
The artwork depicts a complex and abstract scene, with forms and figures that appear to be emerging from or dissolving into amorphous shapes and bursts of color. Central to the composition is a figure that is only partially discernible amidst the textural and chromatic ambiguity, suggesting a narrative that requires contemplation to unpack. At the bottom left corner of the artwork, there seems to be a smaller figure looking upwards, which could be interpreted as a symbolic representation of a biblical character, contributing to the overarching religious narrative suggested by the title. The warm earthy tones dominate the palette, with touches of brighter hues that create a dynamic visual effect. Dali’s use of amorphous shapes and fluid lines contribute to the ethereal and dreamlike quality of the piece, characteristic of his Abstract Expressionist influences, while also embedding deep Symbolist elements through the depiction of religious iconography.
