Egyptian Scene (possibly Moses and Zipporah)

Erastus Salisbury Field's Egyptian Scene (possibly Moses and Zipporah), painted in 1872, is an oil on canvas work. This piece exemplifies the American folk art tradition, presenting a narrative scene that alludes to biblical stories. It features a man, a woman, and a young girl by a river, with the woman cradling an infant.

The painting's title suggests a specific interpretation, connecting it to the Old Testament figures of Moses and Zipporah.

The painting portrays three central figures: a man in a green robe, positioned near two women, one of whom holds a baby wrapped in white. This grouping, set by a river, strongly implies a biblical episode. The parenthetical in the title, "(possibly Moses and Zipporah)," points to a specific narrative from the Book of Exodus, where Moses, his wife Zipporah, and their children journey. Field's interpretation evokes a moment of travel or rest within this ancient story.

Erastus Salisbury Field (1805–1900) was an American artist known for his diverse output, including portraits, landscapes, and historical subjects. He created Egyptian Scene in 1872, long after the era of ancient Egypt. His depiction reflects a 19th-century American perspective on biblical antiquity, rather than historical accuracy.

The work is held within the American Wing, underscoring its significance within the nation's artistic heritage and its representation of a distinct period of American painting.