Moses Closing the Red Sea

Augustin Hirschvogel

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing depicting the parting of waters in a biblical scene. The illustration shows a large group of figures walking along a dry path through a body of water, led by a figure at the front holding a staff. The parted waters reveal chaotic waves with several figures and objects being consumed by the sea. Behind the group, the sea appears turbulent, and some animals seem to be struggling against the current. The scene is rich in detail with intricate cross-hatching defining the contours of the figures and landscape. The expression and posture of the figures suggest determination and purpose as they move forward. At the bottom, there is an inscription that appears to relate to the biblical story of the Exodus, adding a textual element to the visual narrative.