Artwork

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs, by Jean Duvet, ink, 1555
Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs, by Jean Duvet, ink, 1555

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jean Duvet. It dates from 1555 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:"DVVET" recto, on plate, on floor at lower left. "NO ERIT / IN TE DEUS / RECENS / NEQ ADO / RABIS DEV / ALIENVM / EGO SVM / DNS DEVS / TVVS" recto, on plate on double-tablet at upper center. "NOE, ABRA / ILA /AC, IACOB, MELCHE, MOY / SES, IESSE, DAVID, IOSEPH, MARIE / IESUS" recto, on plate, on columns from left to right. "5" recto, upper right margin, black ink, unknown hand. "N. 2" recto, lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. "4" recto, lower right margin, faded black ink, unknown hand. No. 2" verso, lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand.
Markings
Marked:Collection d'Arenberg (Lugt 567) verso, lower left margin, blue stamped ink. "National Gallery of Art" verso, lower right margin, black stamped ink. "LJR" verso, lower right margin, black stamped ink.

About this work

Overview

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs is an engraving on laid paper created by Jean Duvet around 1555. It exemplifies the artist's distinctive style, characterized by dense compositions and deep religious themes.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a central figure holding stone tablets, surrounded by robed men with various attributes, such as crowns and staffs. The names on the columns, including 'Noe' and 'Moses', suggest a biblical context, with the figures representing important religious figures.

Technique & Style

Duvet employed cross-hatching to create depth and texture through fine lines, building up shadows and detail. The resulting image is dense and intricate, with a focus on symbolic representation rather than realistic portrayal.

History & Provenance

Jean Duvet, active from 1485 to after 1562, was a French goldsmith and engraver considered the first significant French printmaker. He produced around 73 plates, known for their expressive freedom and personal style.

The Apocalpse:  St. John Summoned to Heaven
The Apocalpse: St. John Summoned to Heaven, Jean Duvet

Artist & collection

Artist

Jean Duvet

Jean Duvet (1485 – after 1562) was a French Renaissance goldsmith and engraver, now best known for his engravings.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs?

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs was painted by Jean Duvet in 1555.

Where can I see Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs?

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs?

Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs?

Museum-quality prints of Moses Surrounded by the Patriarchs are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.