Valance with The Story of Moses 1595 - 1605

Bernard Salomon created this valance with the Story of Moses in the 16th century, now resting at the Metropolitan Museum. The scene depicts the moment Pharaoh’s daughter discovers the infant Moses in the river, a narrative rich with symbolism. The well or fountain, around which the women gather, goes beyond a mere source of water. The fountain links to ancient archetypes of life, fertility, and purification—echoing the classical spring nymph or the fountain of youth. We can trace such imagery back to the early Roman mosaics, where fountains often adorned domestic spaces, promising prosperity. Its appearance in later Christian art takes on a new spiritual dimension, representing baptism and spiritual cleansing. Consider how these symbols reflect our collective memory and the subconscious, these symbols evoke powerful emotions, offering solace, hope, and continuity across different cultural contexts. These are not linear developments. The fountain, as a symbol, resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, continually enriching our understanding of the enduring human spirit.