Sacrifice (painting)
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"Sacrifice" is a painting created by Robert B. Sherman in 1983. Sherman also created another religiously themed painting of Moses in 1977. Nearly twenty years after creating "Sacrifice", in 2002, the artist authorized a series of limited edition deluxe giclée prints to be produced.
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[edit] Symbolism
The artist uses the story of the Sacrifice of Isaac to explore the emotion of making difficult choices. Abraham had to make a painful decision. If he followed God’s order, he would have to give up his son, whom he loved dearly. In the painting we see Abraham gathering wood, preparing to sacrifice his beloved son. The pathos of this moment is captured in Abraham’s face, but the golden sky foretells the joy he will later feel at following God’s will.
[edit] Mystical Interpretation
Some schools of Jewish mysticism believe Abraham to be the living embodiment of the creator's sharing force. This school of thought holds the ideal of self "Sacrifice” as one of the Creator's most noble attributes[1]. Although this interpretation would seem to contradict Abraham's role in the story of the painting, it is the mystics' belief that mercy is borne out only once the subject has surrendered his will to that of God's.
[edit] Addendum
Famously, Abraham passes God’s test of devotion and, in the end does not have to carry out the immolation of Isaac.
[edit] Limited Edition Numbered Giclées
In 2002 a restricted run of 150 canvas and 275 paper prints Deluxe Edition Giclée on canvas were authorized by the artist. Each Giclée is hand signed by the artist and is numbered and registered with the State of California (USA) as a piece of limited edition fine art.
[edit] About the Artist
A decorated World War II Veteran, Mr. Sherman began painting in 1941 but had not displayed his paintings publicly until 2002. In addition to being a fine painter, Robert B. Sherman is world renowned for his work in the Academy Award™ winning songwriting team: The Sherman Brothers. Some of his work includes song scores for the motion pictures Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Winnie the Pooh and The Jungle Book.
