This exceptionally large and elaborate hat badge portrays the dramatic climax of a story from the book of Genesis, when an angel stops Abraham as he is about to prove his faith by sacrificing his son Isaac. The high relief of the figures, clever incorporation of gemstones to relay the narrative, and vibrant enamel distinguish this example of exquisite small-scale sculpture
Unknown maker, French
Hat Badge with the Sacrifice of Isaac, ca. 1540–50
Gold, enamel, and jewels
The Al Thani Collection