The Sacrifice of Iphigenia 1635 - 1647

"The Sacrifice of Iphigenia" is an etching by Italian artist Pietro Testa, created between 1635 and 1647. The artwork, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts the mythological scene of Iphigenia's sacrifice. The composition showcases a dramatic interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the figures' emotional states. Iphigenia, the daughter of Agamemnon, is about to be sacrificed by her father to appease Artemis. The figures are rendered with striking detail, showcasing Testa's mastery of etching. This intricate etching encapsulates the tragic story of sacrifice and its powerful emotional weight.