Verzamelen van het manna 1720 - 1728

Joseph Mulder created this print titled 'Verzamelen van het manna' which translates to 'Collecting the Manna', in the late 17th to early 18th century. It depicts a scene from the Book of Exodus, where the Israelites gather manna, a miraculous food provided by God during their journey in the desert. Looking at the image, consider the socio-economic conditions of the Dutch Golden Age, where there was growing interest in religious and moral themes. Mulder's portrayal of the biblical scene speaks to the themes of divine provision and communal dependence, reflecting the cultural values of the time. The act of collecting food becomes a symbol of reliance on a higher power and the shared experience of the community. Note the figures are actively engaged in gathering the manna, some kneeling, others reaching out, this evokes a sense of urgency and collective effort. The landscape behind them adds to this feeling, emphasizing their vulnerability. Mulder invites us to reflect on the intersection of faith, survival, and social dynamics. It's a story of resilience, sustenance, and the ties that bind a community together.