Moses lader Det Røde Hav vende tilbage og Faraos hær oversvømmes

Executed with a palette of deep blues and greens for the water and muted earth tones for the rocks and figures, the piece employs vigorous brushwork to convey the turbulence of the sea. The dramatic lighting and heightened emotional tone align it with Romantic sensibilities, favoring movement and intensity over strict realism.

The artist, Xun Xu, was a multifaceted figure of the late Three Kingdoms and early Jin periods, known for his roles as musician, painter, politician, and writer. Originating from the prominent Xun family, he served the Cao Wei state before continuing his official duties under the Jin dynasty. The painting’s later ownership records are not documented in the supplied material.

Although rooted in a Judeo‑Christian narrative, the work reflects the broader 19th‑century fascination with exotic biblical subjects among Chinese scholars who engaged with Western artistic trends. Xun Xu’s background in both Chinese court culture and literary arts informs the synthesis of traditional brush techniques with Romantic drama.