Artwork

The Finding of Moses

The Finding of Moses, by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1741
The Finding of Moses, by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1741

The Finding of Moses is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Baptist Jackson. It dates from 1741 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Finding of Moses is a chiaroscuro woodcut print created by John Baptist Jackson in 1741. It is printed from four blocks in shades of buff, brown, and gray on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a scene with multiple figures, including a baby in a basket, set against a backdrop of pyramids and palm trees. A woman reaches out to the baby while another observes, suggesting a narrative moment from the biblical story of Moses.

Technique & Style

Jackson employed a chiaroscuro woodcut technique, using oil-based inks and subtle overprinting to achieve a range of hues. The print's use of chiaroscuro and dramatic lighting is characteristic of the Baroque style.

History & Provenance

John Baptist Jackson was a British printmaker active in Paris and Venice, known for his innovative approach to color printing and his production of polychrome prints and wallpaper.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Baptist Jackson

Artist

John Baptist Jackson

John Baptist Jackson (1701–1780) was a British artist, a woodcut printmaker of the eighteenth century.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.