The Submersion of Pharaoh's Army in the Red Sea

1514–15, printed 1549

Domenico dalle Greche

(Italian, 1503–1603)

View all records in artwork set

Culture

Italy, Venice

Medium

woodcut

Measurements

Unframed: 41.3 x 56.1 cm (16 1/4 x 22 1/16 in.)

Credit Line

John L. Severance Fund 1952.296.12

Catalogue raisonné

Mauroner 24

You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.

Location

Not on view

Description

To make this monumental woodcut—considered one of the most ambitious prints of the Renaissance—Titian probably drew directly on the wooden blocks, after which a skilled cutter completed the blocks. The size rivals that of a painting, and the composition would have hung on a wall. Titian’s bold vision presents nature as a vehicle of God’s mercy and wrath. Moses, at right, having parted the seas for the Israelites to pass, commands them to close over the Egyptian forces (Exodus 14:21–31). Titian propelled the narrative with remarkable unity, dedicating entire blocks to the turbulent sea and rolling clouds that culminate in a magnificent cliff and Renaissance city. Some have interpreted the scene as an allegory of Venice’s troubles with the League of Cambrai, a military alliance that threatened the island city.