Sacrifice of Abel 1600 - 1700

This anonymous drawing, "Sacrifice of Abel," depicts the biblical scene where Cain murders his brother Abel. It is a preparatory drawing from the 17th century, notable for its expressive use of pen and brown wash. The artist captures the drama of the moment through the figures’ postures and facial expressions. The drawing, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the study and preparation involved in Baroque artmaking, highlighting the complexity of the artistic process.