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The Sacrifice of Noah

Girolamo Carattoni

1850

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Early 19th Century

Dominant colour

The Sacrifice of Noah is a 1850 by Girolamo Carattoni, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Girolamo Carattoni
When & what style?: 1850
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This print shows a dramatic scene with seven figures in a dimly lit space. In the center, a man kneels on the ground, holding a small animal while a woman leans over him, reaching out. Around them, other figures stand or crouch, some pointing or holding objects. The lighting is stark, with shadows cutting deep across faces and bodies, while a few areas glow faintly. The Latin text at the bottom hints this is about Noah building an altar and offering animals as sacrifices. The figures look like they’re from ancient times, but the style feels more like a later artist’s take on it. Look up chiaroscuro next to see how this strong contrast of light and dark works in art.

The story of this work

Overview

The print *The Sacrifice of Noah* by Girolamo Carattoni, created in 1850, reproduces Michelangelo’s depiction of Noah’s offering after the flood. Executed on paper, the work adapts the original composition for print form.

Read the full account in the museum source.

About the artist

Artist

Girolamo Carattoni

These prints show biblical scenes in the late 1700s to early 1800s style. You’ll find *The Deluge*, *Noah and his Sons*, *The Sacrifice of Noah*, and *Holy Family and St. John*. The prints mix dramatic moments with soft…

See the richer artist page