Head of Abraham

The particular posture of this head allows for the identification of Abraham.

Here, the emaciated face with a long beard reflects an advanced age. The upward gaze marks the moment when the celestial voice halts him in his act of sacrifice. This unusual position in the cloister allowed for the recognition of Abraham, who, for theologians, becomes the figure of God the Father accepting the sacrifice of his son. Similarly, in other contemporary artworks, such as enamels, one observes the same twist of Abraham turning towards the sky.

Cross Plaque (right arm): Detail of the sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham
Mosan workshop, around 1160-1170, inv. MRR 244
Louvre Museum
Photo © Marc Gi