Moses and the Brazen Serpent

18th century

Follower of Francesco Fontebasso

Associated Names
Francesco Fontebasso

Related Artist, Venetian, 1709 - 1769

This is a drawing of a biblical scene featuring a group of people and a staff with a serpent. The scene depicts a dramatic moment where several figures are reacting with various expressions of fear or distress. In the foreground, people are depicted in flowing robes, some with outstretched arms, appearing to be in anguish or surprise. The central figure stands on a higher plane, prominently holding up a staff with a serpent coiled around it, leading the scene with a significant gesture. The background includes others standing and pointing, enhancing the narrative tension. The style is reminiscent of classical religious depictions, with detailed linework and shading contributing to the dynamic compositions and expressions.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink, brush and brown ink, and brown wash, heightened with white, on prepared laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Malcolm W. Bick

  • Dimensions

    overall (approximate): 51.4 x 39.2 cm (20 1/4 x 15 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1973.64.12


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Christian M. Nebehay, Vienna, by 1906); J.V. Novak (Lugt 1949); (Christian M. Nebehay, Vienna, c. 1969); Malcolm M. BIck, Springfield, MA, by 1973); gift to NGA in 1973.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1974

  • Recent Acquisitions and Promised Gifts: Sculptures, Drawings, Prints. National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1974:206.

1990

  • Magrini, Marina. "Francesco Fontebasso-I disegni," Saggi e Memorie di Storia dell'Arte 17, 1990: 168 note 17, 194, under no. 187.

Inscriptions

in later hand, upper center verso: 12.; lower right verso: XXI/12 / #2

Wikidata ID

Q64562072

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