Moses Striking Water from the Rock - Nicolas Poussin
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Description
A classic 1649 history painting by Nicolas Poussin, depicting the biblical miracle of Moses providing water to the Israelites in the desert.
Nicolas Poussin painted this work in 1649, during his mature period in Rome. The composition depicts the biblical narrative from Exodus, where Moses strikes a rock in the desert to provide water for the Israelites. Poussin organises the figures into distinct groups, creating a clear narrative flow that moves from the central act of the miracle to the reactions of the thirsty crowd.
The painting demonstrates the artist's interest in classical order and rational structure. Moses stands to the left, his gesture directing the viewer's eye toward the source of the water. Surrounding him, the figures display a range of human emotions, from desperation to relief. Poussin uses a palette of earthy tones, punctuated by the primary colours of the garments, to ground the scene in a historical context. The lighting is carefully managed to define the musculature of the figures and the texture of the rocky environment.
Unlike many of his contemporaries who favoured dramatic movement, Poussin maintains a sense of stillness and intellectual rigour. The figures are modelled on classical sculpture, reflecting his study of antiquity. The background features a dry, arid environment that contrasts with the life-giving water flowing at the base of the rock. This work is a prime example of the artist's ability to combine complex theological themes with a disciplined, classical aesthetic. It remains a study in how to balance narrative clarity with formal composition, a hallmark of his approach to history painting.
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Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
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Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
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- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
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Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Moses Striking Water from the Rock - Nicolas Poussin
Artist Biography
Nicolas Poussin
Poussin's artistic vision was rooted in order, reason, and harmony. Unlike the dramatic flair of the Baroque, Poussin sought clarity and balance in his paintings. His meticulously planned compositions, populated with figures inspired by ancient sculpture, evoke a sense of timelessness and moral virtue. Key works like "The Death of Germanicus" and "The Rape of the Sabine Women" exemplify his dedication to historical and mythological subjects, rendered with a controlled palette and precise draughtsmanship.
Although he spent a significant portion of his career in Rome, Poussin's influence on French art was profound. He became a touchstone for generations of artists seeking to emulate his intellectual approach and classical ideals. His legacy extends beyond individual paintings; it encompasses a philosophy of art that values intellect, order, and the pursuit of ideal beauty. Poussin died in Rome in 1665, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire awe and intellectual engagement.
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