Isaiah c. 1838

This oil painting by Ernest Meissonier, a leading French academic artist of the 19th century, portrays the biblical prophet Isaiah. The depiction of Isaiah is a common subject matter in art history and Meissonier's rendition captures the prophet in a moment of contemplation, seated on a rocky outcrop with a book in hand. He is looking upwards with a solemn expression as if receiving divine inspiration, reflecting the traditional view of Isaiah as a recipient of prophetic visions. Meissonier’s realism is evident in the detailed depiction of Isaiah's clothing, facial features, and the surrounding landscape.