The artwork titled “Moses on the Mountain During the Battle, as in Exodus” is a religious painting by James Tissot, an artist associated with the Symbolism movement. This piece reflects a biblical narrative and embodies the spiritual and emblematic characteristics often found in Symbolist art.
In the artwork, three figures are depicted on a mountainous backdrop, which suggests a scene of biblical import. The central figure assumed to be Moses, is an elderly man with a white beard, seated and wearing a long white robe. His arms are held aloft by the two men flanking him, indicating a moment of dependence and cooperation. The figures appear engaged in a significant event, with Moses as the focal point and mediator between the divine and earthly realms.
The men supporting Moses seem to display a sense of urgency and concentration, underlining the importance of their task. The one to the left has his eyes closed and hands firmly grasping Moses’ arm, possibly in prayer or concentration, while the figure on the right looks away, possibly keeping watch over the scene below or in contemplation. Their attire is colorful and indicative of the era, providing a contrast to the white robe of Moses. The landscape is sparse and rugged, hinting at the desolation of the wilderness and the harsh conditions under which this historic episode is taking place.
In this scene, Tissot captures the narrative found in the Book of Exodus where Moses’ uplifted hands ensure the Israelites’ victory in battle. Symbolically, the artist might be exploring themes of faith, perseverance, and divine intervention. The colors used are muted yet deliberate, creating an atmosphere suitable for the solemnity of the narrative while drawing the viewer into the depth of the story depicted.
