Abraham Bloemart: Moses Striking the Rock

Art is a significant part of human history, with different cultures and periods creating distinct styles and techniques. From prehistoric cave paintings to contemporary works, the evolution of art has been shaped by various social, political, and cultural factors, which can be adequately understood by assessing art history and how it reflects the changing values and beliefs of societies.[1] In this paper, the assessment of art history is narrowed down to “Moses Striking the Rock” by Abraham Bloemaert, a Netherlandish painter from the late 16th century. Through analyzing this artwork, the paper examines how it reflects the cultural parameters and the influences of the period and style in which it was created. Moreover, the study explores how this artwork fits within its cultural and historical context and how it contributes to the broader trends in art history.

Abraham Bloemaert was a Dutch artist who was part of a group of painters known as the Utrecht Caravaggists. These artists were heavily influenced by the Baroque style of painting, which emphasized dramatic lighting, powerful emotion, and realism. “Moses Striking the Rock” is an excellent example of Bloemaert’s skill in creating emotionally charged and highly realistic works of art. His oil painting captures a powerful moment from the biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites through the wilderness. The story is told in the book of Exodus, where Moses strikes a rock, causing water to gush out to quench the thirst of the Israelites wandering in the desert. Bloemaert’s style, known as Mannerism to art historians, is characterized by extended, twisted, and unnaturally muscular forms.[3] Moses hits a rock to release water for the Jews during their exodus from Egypt in the center ground, almost concealed in shadow. For example, the colossal bare-breasted woman with a water pitcher on her back overshadows the painting’s apparent subject, indicating that the artist’s top focus is the representation of a variety of idealized bodies that are influenced by a dialogue with modern Italian art.

The Israelites are depicted as a ragged and desperate group, huddled together and clamoring for water. Their faces are drawn, and their overall body positionings convey their thirst and exhaustion. The group of animals is depicted with similar realism and detail, contributing to the painting’s naturalistic feel. The landscape depicted in the painting is also highly detailed and realistic, with a vast rocky desert stretching beyond the images. The depiction of the desert is predominantly a range of greens and browns, indicating the harshness of the terrain and the desperate need for water. The painting’s color palette is muted and earthy, with a dominant use of greens and browns. The use of earth tones creates a naturalistic feel and helps to convey the harshness of the desert environment.[4] The use of light is also highly effective, with the sun’s bright light casting strong shadows and highlighting the figures and landscape. However, the most striking feature of the painting is found in its large landscape. Having a larger landscape in the painting allows for a highly detailed and immersive depiction of the scene, drawing the viewer into the story and conveying the emotional intensity of the moment.[5]

From a cultural context perspective, the artwork is deeply rooted in the religious traditions of Christianity. The painting depicts a significant story from the Bible that has been depicted in art for centuries. The story of Moses striking the rock is a powerful symbol of God’s provision for his people and has been interpreted in many ways throughout history.[6] Moreover, the painting reflects the religious themes and interests of the late 16th century in the Netherlands. It is an example of the Mannerist style, which was popular then and characterized by exaggerated poses, complex compositions, and vivid colors. According to Strasbaugh, depicting a Biblical scene would have been familiar and appealing to the predominantly Protestant audience of the time.[7]

In terms of its influence on art and culture, this work by Bloemart has been a significant inspiration for many artists throughout history. The story of Moses striking the rock has been depicted in countless works, from medieval manuscripts to modern-day paintings. The painting’s naturalistic depiction of the landscape and figures was highly influential in developing realistic painting styles, which became dominant in the centuries following the Baroque period.[8] The intricate details and textures of the figures’ clothing and the rocky landscape add depth and realism to the scene, while the arrangement of the figures creates a sense of narrative and drama. Ultimately, “Moses Striking the Rock” is a powerful and emotionally charged work of art that conveys the intensity of the biblical story it depicts. The painting’s composition, color, and scale all contribute to its success in conveying the emotional power of the moment. The painting is an excellent example of the Baroque painting style, and its influence on art and culture can still be seen today.

In conclusion, studying “Moses Striking the Rock” by Abraham Bloemaert creates a sense of satisfaction in gaining a deeper understanding of the artwork. Examining the artwork’s formal elements has enhanced my appreciation of the technical skill and artistic vision that went into its creation. Specifically, I have gained a greater appreciation for the intricate details and textures of the figures’ clothing and the rocky landscape, as well as the use of bright colors and bold brushstrokes to create a vibrant and lively atmosphere. I also have an enhanced understanding of the cultural and historical context that shaped the artwork. Examining the religious themes and influences has also offered valuable insights into the beliefs and values of the late 16th century in the Netherlands. Consequently, there is growth in my appreciation for the artwork and its significance as a reflection of its time and place. More importantly, my engagement with the artwork on a deeper level has sharpened my understanding of the power of art in communicating complex ideas and emotions and a deeper connection to the rich and varied traditions of art history.

Work Cited

Krasnikova, Alena. “Hendrick de Clerck’s Moses Striking the Rock: Turning Religion into a Myth.”

Roethlisberger, M. G. (2000). Abraham Bloemaert: Recent Additions to His Paintings. Artibus et Historiae, 151-169.

Strasbaugh, Chris. Call to Action: The Role of Religious Painting in Utrecht’s Golden Age (1590-1640). Diss. University of Cincinnati, 2007.

[1] Krasnikova, Alena. “Hendrick de Clerck’s Moses Striking the Rock: Turning Religion into a Myth.”

[2] Krasnikova, Alena. “Hendrick de Clerck’s Moses Striking the Rock: Turning Religion into a Myth.”

[3] Krasnikova, Alena. “Hendrick de Clerck’s Moses Striking the Rock: Turning Religion into a Myth.”

[4] Strasbaugh, Chris. Call to Action: The Role of Religious Painting in Utrecht’s Golden Age (1590-1640). Diss. University of Cincinnati, 2007.

[5] Strasbaugh, Chris. Call to Action: The Role of Religious Painting in Utrecht’s Golden Age (1590-1640). Diss. University of Cincinnati, 2007.

[6] Roethlisberger, M. G. (2000). Abraham Bloemaert: Recent Additions to His Paintings. Artibus et Historiae, 151-169.

[7] Strasbaugh, Chris. Call to Action: The Role of Religious Painting in Utrecht’s Golden Age (1590-1640). Diss. University of Cincinnati, 2007.

[8] Strasbaugh, Chris. Call to Action: The Role of Religious Painting in Utrecht’s Golden Age (1590-1640). Diss. University of Cincinnati, 2007.