Who painted Finding of Moses?

Finding of Moses was painted by Augustin Hirschvogel in 1548.

Where can I see Finding of Moses?

Finding of Moses is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Finding of Moses?

Finding of Moses is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Finding of Moses

Augustin Hirschvogel , 1548

Finding of Moses is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Augustin Hirschvogel. It dates from 1548 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Finding of Moses is a 1548 etching by Augustin Hirschvogel, a German artist known for his contributions to etching, mathematics, and cartography. The work is characteristic of the Danube School, a 16th-century artistic movement active in Bavaria and Austria.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a biblical scene, likely the discovery of the infant Moses by the Nile, as suggested by the riverbank setting and the narrative text in German below the image. Three women, one holding a swaddled baby and another gesturing towards the water, are central to the composition.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, a technique allowing for detailed line work, the piece features Hirschvogel's signature small landscape format, common in his etchings from 1545 to 1549. Tall trees and wavy lines for water are notable stylistic elements.

History & Provenance

Created in 1548, the etching is part of Hirschvogel's output within the Danube School. Specific provenance details (ownership history) are not provided in the available information.

Context

As a Danube School piece, Finding of Moses reflects the regional artistic tendencies of 16th-century Bavaria and Austria, characterized by detailed, small-scale landscapes and religious themes.

Legacy

While specific influences or subsequent artworks directly inspired by Finding of Moses are not detailed, the piece contributes to the broader legacy of Hirschvogel's etchings in the history of printmaking.