Artwork
Moses Striking the Rock
Moses Striking the Rock is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Joachim Anthonisz Wtewael. It dates from 1624 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Joachim Anthonisz Wtewael completed "Moses Striking the Rock" in 1624, rendering the biblical narrative in oil on panel. This painting captures the dramatic moment when Moses provides water for the parched Israelites. The composition is densely populated, presenting a vibrant and complex scene that combines a central act of divine intervention with a multitude of human and animal figures.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork depicts the Old Testament account of Moses bringing forth water from a rock to quench the thirst of the Israelites during their exodus.
The artwork depicts the Old Testament account of Moses bringing forth water from a rock to quench the thirst of the Israelites during their exodus. At the painting's core, a man with a staff, representing Moses, stands while a woman kneels beside him, pouring water from a jug. This central act of sustenance is surrounded by a bustling crowd, emphasizing both the miraculous event and the collective relief of the community.
Technique & Style
Wtewael's painting is characterized by its crowded and dynamic composition, featuring numerous figures and animals across a rocky terrain. Groups of men and women are depicted in various poses, alongside wandering cows and goats. The background reveals mounted soldiers moving through a misty landscape. The color scheme predominantly uses earthy tones of brown, green, and muted blue, enlivened by strategic accents of red and white that highlight key elements within the busy scene.
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