The artwork titled “The Exposure of Moses” was crafted by the eminent artist Nicolas Poussin around 1650. This oil painted canvas is a manifestation of the Classical art movement and positions itself within the religious painting genre. The dimensions of the artwork span 105 by 204 centimeters. Currently, it resides in the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, UK.
In “The Exposure of Moses,” Nicolas Poussin depicts the biblical narrative where the infant Moses is set adrift by his mother to save him from the Pharaoh’s decree to slaughter all newborn Hebrew boys. The artwork captures a key moment from the Book of Exodus: Moses in his makeshift cradle navigates the waters of the Nile, observed by various figures on the riverbank. On the left, a regal figure in a glowing yellow and red robe strides away, her large posture and vivid attire drawing the viewer’s attention. Behind her, a young child looks on, while a woman covers her face in sorrow, seemingly indicating emotional turmoil over the event taking place.
The riverbank is lively with additional characters; women appear to be washing garments or drawing water, and one lady reclines – her body language is relaxed, contrasting sharply with the intense scene playing out before her. A basket of clothes beautifully positioned on the water’s edge adds a touch of everyday life to the religious scene. The landscape in the background, with a fortress and verdant surroundings, creates a sense of depth and place. The play of light and shadow, particularly how it highlights the figures and landscape features, coupled with the use of cool and warm colors, is masterfully orchestrated to guide the viewer’s gaze throughout the composition. The scene is more than a mere illustration of a religious tale; it is imbued with human emotion, symbolic gestures, and a richly detailed environment that invites contemplation on the divine and human worlds.
