The Submersion of Pharaoh's Army in the Red Sea

1514–15, printed 1549

Domenico dalle Greche

(Italian, 1503–1603)

Italy, Venice, 16th century

woodcut

Unframed: 41.3 x 56 cm (16 1/4 x 22 1/16 in.)

John L. Severance Fund 1952.296.10

Catalogue raisonné: Mauroner 24

Location: not on view

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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.