Figural study: Moses, ca. 1736 – 1737

About the Work

This study develops a mighty figure of Moses that forms the focal point of a monumental wall painting still in existence today. Jacob de Wit executed it for the town hall of Amsterdam (the present-day "Paleis op de Dam"). In keeping with the setting – the council hall – the composition depicts Moses’ selection of the seventy elders who are to assist him in the capacity of advisors. The artist outlined the composition in black and white chalk on blue paper, then corrected and revised it with the tip of a brush.