The Story Unfolds
In the beautiful Garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve only one rule: they could eat from any tree except the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. But a cunning serpent tempted Eve, who ate the forbidden fruit and gave some to Adam. In that moment of disobedience, sin and shame entered the world. When God came to walk with them in the garden, they hid. As a consequence of their choice, God sent an angel to guide them from Paradise. Though they had to leave their perfect home and face a new life of hardship, pain, and eventual death, God in His mercy did not abandon them completely—He gave them clothing to cover their nakedness and a promise of future redemption.
Story Summary
After disobeying God, Adam and Eve are guided from Paradise by an angel, beginning humanity's journey outside Eden.
Masterpiece Showcase
Artwork Details
"The Expulsion of Adam and Eve from Paradise"
Benjamin West
c. 1791
Oil on canvas
National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
Curator's Insights
About the Art
West's Neoclassical masterpiece captures the expulsion with dramatic grandeur, showing both divine authority and human pathos in perfect balance.
About the Artist
Benjamin West was a pioneering American Neoclassical painter who became president of the Royal Academy in London and influenced a generation of artists.
Historical Context
Painted during the Age of Enlightenment, this work reflects Neoclassical ideals of moral instruction through classical beauty and emotional restraint.
Techniques Used:
Symbolism:
- Angel's white robes represent divine purity
- Serpent on ground shows the cause of their fall
- Dark clouds contrast with Eden's light
- Adam's covered face shows shame and remorse
Interactive Art Adventure
Look Closer
- See how the angel guides them with authority yet compassion
- Notice the serpent slithering on the ground - the cause of their trouble
- Compare the light of Paradise behind them with the darker world ahead
- Observe how Adam covers his face while Eve looks back longingly
Creative Spark
West painted this with grand, classical style. Try drawing simple figures in dramatic poses to show strong emotions like sorrow, shame, or guidance.