The Crossing of the Red Sea

The "Crossing of the Red Sea" is an exquisite fresco located in the Sistine Chapel within Vatican City. It is believed to have been painted between 1481 and 1482 as part of a larger series that narrates the stories of Moses and Christ, thereby highlighting the connection between the Old and New Testaments.

In the fresco, Moses and Aaron are depicted pleading with Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The artwork also dramatically captures the moment when the Red Sea closes over the Egyptian soldiers, drowning them. To enhance the drama, symbolic elements such as a pillar of fire and a hailstorm, both sent by God, are included. On the opposite side of the scene, the liberated Israelites, led by Moses, are depicted engaging in various activities as they continue their journey.

The artist behind this masterpiece remains somewhat of a mystery. Some scholars attribute it to Domenico Ghirlandaio, while others suggest Biagio d'Antonio or Cosimo Rosselli. This fresco is part of a larger decorative project in the Sistine Chapel, commissioned to facilitate reconciliation between Lorenzo de' Medici and Pope Sixtus IV.

What makes this fresco particularly captivating are the intricate details, such as the depiction of weather phenomena and even a pet dog, which reflect the influence of other contemporary artists.