Mozes en Aäron voor de farao 1645 - 1740

This woodcut print, made by Christoffel van Sichem II, depicts Moses and Aaron confronting the Pharaoh. It stages a pivotal moment of resistance against tyranny. Created in the Netherlands, likely in the early 17th century, this image reflects the religious and political climate of the time. The Dutch Republic, newly independent from Spanish rule, identified with the Israelites' struggle for freedom. Prints like these circulated widely, reinforcing a sense of national identity rooted in religious conviction and resistance to oppressive authority. The artist employs a stark, graphic style to convey the drama of the encounter, emphasizing the Pharaoh's power and Moses' defiance. To fully understand this work, we might consult historical texts, religious commentaries, and studies of Dutch print culture. By situating art within its specific social and institutional context, we reveal its power to shape and reflect the values of its time.