Who painted Moses exposed by the river?

Moses exposed by the river was painted by Nicolas Poussin in 1654.

Where can I see Moses exposed by the river?

Moses exposed by the river is held by Ashmolean Museum.

What movement is Moses exposed by the river?

Moses exposed by the river is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Artwork

Moses exposed by the river

Nicolas Poussin , 1654

Moses exposed by the river is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Nicolas Poussin. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

Overview

Moses Exposed by the River is a 1654 oil painting by Nicolas Poussin, now in the Ashmolean Museum. The work captures a serene riverbank scene with a group of figures, centered around a baby being held by a man in yellow, amidst a narrative unfolding by the water.

Subject & Meaning

According to Exodus, Moses' mother, Jochebed, placed him in a reed basket to save him from Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew male babies.

The painting illustrates a pivotal moment from the biblical story of Moses: the exposure of the infant Moses by the river Nile. According to Exodus, Moses' mother, Jochebed, placed him in a reed basket to save him from Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew male babies. The scene depicts the moment before the baby's discovery by Pharaoh's daughter, highlighting themes of salvation, protection, and the inception of Moses' destiny.

Technique & Style

Poussin employs his characteristic classical style, blending harmony and balance. The composition features a restrained color palette, with the yellow and blue robes of the central figures contrasting against the more muted tones of the landscape. The brushwork is precise, capturing the textures of fabrics, water, and vegetation with clarity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1654, the painting's early history is not extensively documented. It is known to be part of the collection at the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest public museums in Europe, indicating its recognition as a significant work of 17th-century European art.

Context

Painted during the Baroque period, 'Moses Exposed by the River' reflects Poussin's interest in biblical themes and his adherence to classical ideals of beauty and composition. The work contrasts with more dramatic Baroque styles, showcasing Poussin's unique blend of restraint and emotional depth.

Legacy

While not Poussin's most celebrated work, 'Moses Exposed by the River' contributes to the artist's reputation for nuanced biblical interpretations. It remains a valued piece in the Ashmolean's collection, offering insights into 17th-century artistic approaches to religious narratives.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nicolas Poussin

Nicolas Poussin (UK: , US: , French: ; June 1594 – 19 November 1665) was a leading painter of the classical French Baroque style, although he spent most of his working life in Rome.