Abraham and Isaac
Figure Group
18th century (made)
18th century (made)
Artist/Maker | |
Place of origin |
Maritime trade with China from the 16th century opened routes not just for merchants, but also for Christian missionaries. One result was images produced by Chinese craftsmen that reflect Christian beliefs. Some copy European models directly. Others, such as this depiction of Abraham and Isaac, dress biblical figures in Chinese costume, probably to make them more accessible and resonant to local audiences.
Object details
Categories | |
Object type | |
Title | Abraham and Isaac (generic title) |
Materials and techniques | Porcelain painted in overglaze enamels and gilt |
Brief description | Abraham and Isaac, porcelain painted in overglaze enamels and gilt, China, Qing dynasty, 18th century |
Physical description | Figure group of Abraham and Isaac, porcelain painted in polychrome overglaze enamels and gilt. Probably moulded after a European print. A fat and bearded Abraham in Chinese dress brandishes his sword above a scowling Chinese Isaac, whose head he holds still with his other hand. |
Dimensions |
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Style | |
Credit line | Given by Mr C.N. Ades in memory of his wife, Andrée Ades |
Production | Register |
Subjects depicted | |
Summary | Maritime trade with China from the 16th century opened routes not just for merchants, but also for Christian missionaries. One result was images produced by Chinese craftsmen that reflect Christian beliefs. Some copy European models directly. Others, such as this depiction of Abraham and Isaac, dress biblical figures in Chinese costume, probably to make them more accessible and resonant to local audiences. |
Collection | |
Accession number | FE.7-1978 |
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Record created | January 9, 2009 |
Record URL |
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