The artwork titled “Hagar” was created by the artist Edmonia Lewis in 1875. This marble sculpture, belonging to the Neoclassicism art movement, is displayed at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC, US.
The sculpture depicted in the artwork embodies Neoclassical aesthetics, showcasing technical prowess and adherence to classical form. The figure of Hagar is meticulously rendered in marble, capturing a poignant moment with a sense of grace and solemnity. Her attire is intricately detailed, flowing elegantly and conveying both movement and emotion. The drapery of the fabric, the serene yet sorrowful expression, and the overall composition of the artwork highlight Lewis’s mastery in sculpting and her ability to elicit profound emotional responses from the viewer. The embodiment of Hagar, a figure from biblical narratives, further underpins the classical influences and themes of human endurance and faith intrinsic to Neoclassical sculpture.
