Balak's Sacrifice, and Balaam's Prophecy 1548

Augustin Hirschvogel's 1548 etching, *Balak's Sacrifice, and Balaam's Prophecy*, depicts the biblical story of Balaam, a prophet, being sent by Balak, king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. The scene shows Balaam, on the right, with a sword at his side, turning away from an altar with burning sacrifices on it. To the left, Balak is seen gesturing at Balaam with a puzzled expression. This artwork, part of a larger series of etchings, was a popular print among German Protestants in the 16th century, as its subject matter highlighted the power of God and the triumph of the righteous over the wicked. The artist's detailed and expressive lines, reminiscent of the Renaissance style, emphasize the dramatic narrative and the characters' emotions.