The artwork titled “Hagar and Ishmael in the Wilderness,” created by the artist Gustave Doré, is a product of the Romanticism movement and belongs to the genre of religious painting. It is part of the series known as “The Holy Bible.” The piece portrays a poignant biblical scene involving Hagar and her son Ishmael, as they endure hardship in the desert.
In the artwork, Hagar is depicted in a seated position, resting against a large rocky formation, her posture and facial expression evoking a sense of despair and helplessness. She covers her face with one hand, conveying the immense emotional burden she bears. Nearby, young Ishmael lies prostrate on the barren ground, overcome by exhaustion or weakness. The surroundings are stark and desolate, characterized by rough, uninviting terrain, which underscores the harsh conditions they face. The detailed etching further enhances the dramatic and emotional impact of the scene, typical of Doré’s masterful interpretation of biblical narratives. At the bottom of the artwork, a verse from Genesis (21:17-18) is inscribed, emphasizing the divine intervention and the promise of a future for Ishmael.
