Abraham Casting out Hagar and Ishmael

Abraham Casting out Hagar and Ishmael is a 1657 oil on canvas painting by Guercino, commissioned from him by the town of Cento to present to cardinal Lorenzo Imperiali, papal legate in Ferrara.

It depicts the episode of the expulsion of Hagar and her son Ishmael by Abraham.

Sarah ordered Abraham to send Hagar and Ishmael away, which he did, after being assured by God that it was done in accordance with His will.

Guercino chose the moment when Abraham dismisses Hagar.

On the opposite side is Ishmael crying, trying to protect himself in his mother's arms.