Abraham expels Hagar and Ishmael Philip Van Dijk (1683-1753)

The composition presents a scene steeped in pathos and familial discord. A central male figure, distinguished by his age and beard, gestures emphatically with one hand while using the other to guide or restrain a younger boy. The boy, barefoot and clutching a small stick, appears reluctant, his body angled away from the older man. Beside him stands a woman, her face turned downward in evident distress; she is draped in flowing robes that partially conceal her form. A dog, positioned near the woman’s feet, seems to mirror her sorrowful posture, its head lowered and ears drooping.
The setting is ambiguous, transitioning between an enclosed space – suggested by the dark curtain or architectural element on the left – and a landscape visible through this opening. The background reveals rolling hills, scattered livestock, and a pale sky, creating a sense of vastness and isolation that underscores the woman’s abandonment. A secondary figure, partially obscured within the shadowed area near the architecture, observes the scene with an expression difficult to decipher; he may represent a witness or participant in this unfolding drama.
The artists use of light is significant. The central figures are illuminated, drawing attention to their emotional states and actions. The woman’s exposed shoulder and the boy’s bare feet contribute to a sense of vulnerability and exposure. The darker areas surrounding them heighten the dramatic tension and emphasize the feeling of rejection.
Subtextually, the painting explores themes of obedience, divine command, and the complexities of familial relationships. The older mans gesture suggests an act compelled by external authority, yet his expression is not overtly harsh, hinting at internal conflict or a reluctant fulfillment of duty. The woman’s grief speaks to the pain of separation and loss, while the boy’s resistance implies a yearning for connection and belonging. The dog’s presence adds another layer of emotional resonance, symbolizing loyalty and companionship that are being denied. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on the human cost of adherence to higher powers and the enduring consequences of difficult choices.