Carved capital showing Abraham about to sacrifice Isaac. From Hyde Abbey, Winchester, Hampshire.

Abraham and Issac stone capital

Medieval, 12th century

Found on the site of Hyde Abbey, Winchester, Hampshire

A capital is the name given to the top part of a pillar or column. A medieval stone mason has depicted the figures of Abraham and Isaac on this capital, which would originally have been painted in bright colours. According to the biblical story,Genesis 22:1-19, God tested Abraham by commanding him to sacrifice his son Isaac. After Isaac was bound to an altar, the angel of God stopped Abraham at the last minute, saying "now I know you fear God." At this point Abraham saw a ram caught in some nearby bushes and sacrificed the ram in Isaac's stead.