The Sacrifice of Isaac 1556 - 1618

"The Sacrifice of Isaac" is a needlepoint picture created by William Sheldon sometime between 1556 and 1618, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. It depicts a scene from the Book of Genesis in which Abraham is about to sacrifice his son Isaac as an offering to God. The work is filled with intricate detail, including a lush landscape, a brightly colored angel descending from heaven, and a variety of floral motifs. Despite the somber subject matter, the work's rich colors and delicate needlework make it a beautiful and poignant piece of religious art.