Tamar giving birth to Pharez and Sarah, 16th century

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images

Tamar giving birth to Pharez and Sarah, 16th century

Tamar giving birth to Pharez and Sarah, 16th century. Tamar had twins by her father-in-law Judah Pharez (Peres) whose descendants include King David and Jesus of Nazareth and Sarah (Zera). The midwife, an old woman, delivers Sarah while her brother is washed. Tamar is sitting on a birthing stool and is supported by her ladies. At centre front a basket of swaddling bands is ready to wind round the infants. An episode from the Old Testament (Leviticus 18.15), depicted as a lying-in scene in a high status 16th century house

Heritage Images features heritage image collections

Media ID 14866138

© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images

Bible Scene Birth Childbirth Heemskerck Heemskirck Hemskirk Jewish Judaism Maarten Ja Maerten Maerten Heemskirck Maerten Van Maerten Van Heemskerck Maerten Van Hemskirk Martin Martin Van Martin Van Heemskerck Midwife Oxford Science Archive Sarah Tamar Van Heemskerck Van Hemskirk Biblical Old Testament

EDITORS COMMENTS
This 16th-century print captures the profound biblical moment of Tamar giving birth to her twins, Pharez and Sarah. Depicting an episode from the Old Testament, this scene showcases Tamar's remarkable story as she bears children by her father-in-law Judah. Little did she know that her descendants would include King David and even Jesus of Nazareth. The artist, Maerten van Heemskerck, skillfully portrays the intimate details of this high-status household birthing scene. Tamar is seated on a birthing stool, surrounded by her loyal ladies who provide support during this miraculous event. The midwife, an experienced old woman, expertly delivers baby Sarah while another attendant carefully washes the newborn boy. Intriguingly, at the center front lies a basket filled with swaddling bands eagerly awaiting their purpose in wrapping these precious infants. This print beautifully captures both the physicality and spirituality intertwined within childbirth. As we delve into this artwork inspired by religious texts such as Leviticus 18:15, we are reminded of the significant role women played in biblical narratives. Their strength and resilience shine through as they navigate challenges and bring forth new life. This historical engraving not only serves as a visual testament to faith but also offers a glimpse into societal norms and practices during the 16th century. It stands as a powerful reminder of how art can illuminate stories from centuries past while still resonating with contemporary audiences today.

MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.