The Sacrifice of Iphigenia 1664 - 1691

Gerard de Lairesse’s “The Sacrifice of Iphigenia” is a pen-and-ink drawing, created between 1664 and 1691, depicting the Greek myth of Iphigenia, the daughter of King Agamemnon, being sacrificed by her father to appease the goddess Artemis. The drawing features a dramatic composition of the scene, showcasing the anguish of the characters, particularly Iphigenia’s desperate attempt to escape her fate. De Lairesse was a prolific artist known for his detailed and expressive drawings, which made him one of the most important draftsmen of the Dutch Golden Age. "The Sacrifice of Iphigenia" is a fine example of De Lairesse's mastery in drawing, captivating the viewer with its dramatic portrayal of the ancient myth.