Image of Gallery in South Kensington
On display at V&A South Kensington
Ceramics, Room 145

Abraham and Isaac

Figure Group
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
TitleAbraham 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
  • Height: 29.8cm
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 createdJanuary 9, 2009
Record URL
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