Moses and the Brazen Serpent

Art Historical Context

In the intimate drawing *Moses and the Brazen*, Italian artist Luigi Ademollo a pivotal biblical moment from the Book of Numbers. Created between 1751 and 1775, it depicts Moses raising the bronze serpent on a pole to heal the afflicted Israelites, a scene symbolizing faith and divine intervention. Ademollo, active in Florence during the late Baroque to early Neoclassical transition favored such dramatic historical and religious subjects, blending narrative depth with refined draftsmanship. Executed in pen and black ink with black wash and white gou on wove paper—a smooth, innovative 18th-century support—the work measures just 9.4 x 10.9 cm, suggesting it as a preparatory study or collector's gem. The black wash builds shadowy depth, evoking tension and light, while white gouache heightens highlights on figures and serpent, creating a luminous, theatrical effect typical of the era's virtuoso techniques. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's Joseph F. McCrindle Collection (Department CG-E), this drawing showcases Ademollo's skill in concise, expressive linework. It invites visitors to appreciate how 18th-century artists like him bridged storytelling and innovation, offering a window into both spiritual heritage and artistic experimentation.