The sacrifice of Abel (plate 1 from The Story of Cain and Abel) 1576

Johann Sadeler I’s 1576 engraving, “The Sacrifice of Abel,” depicts the biblical story of Cain and Abel. The print, the first in a series of engravings, shows Abel kneeling in prayer with his arms raised towards the heavens, while Cain, depicted in the foreground, looks on dejectedly. The scene is set amidst a landscape of rolling hills and a distant river, with a cloud emanating from Abel’s offering of a lamb. “The Sacrifice of Abel” is a fine example of the Northern Renaissance style, with its intricate detail and emphasis on realism, and showcases Sadeler’s mastery of engraving techniques.