Artwork
The ordeal of the young Moses
The ordeal of the young Moses is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Luca Saltarello. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Ordeal of the Young Moses is a 1627 oil painting by Luca Saltarello, an Italian artist trained in Genoa and active in Rome. The work is characteristic of the early Baroque period in Italy.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a dramatic biblical scene with multiple figures set against classical architecture. A woman in ornate dress holds a baby, while a man in a red cloak gestures towards her, and a shirtless man kneels with a sword and another baby in a basket.
Technique & Style
The artist employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create depth and drama. Earthy tones dominate the palette, contributing to the overall mood of the scene.
History & Provenance
Completed in 1627, the painting is now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Luca Saltarello (c. 1610 – c. 1645) was an Italian Baroque painter known for his religious compositions. After training in Genoa he worked the rest of his short life in Rome.
The Judgement of Solomon
The Meeting of Abraham and Melchizedek
A historical scene
Continence of Scipio
Moses trampling on the Pharaoh’s crown
The Anointing of David
The Patron Saints of the Crotta Family
Raguel's Blessing of her Daughter Sarah before Leaving Ecbatana with Tobias
Repentant Sinners in front of the Virgin and Child
La prudente Abigail
Achilles discovered by Ulysses and Diomedes
Head of Cyrus Brought to Queen Tomyris