Moses Striking the Rock

This painting depicts Moses striking the rock at Horeb with his rod to provide water for the Israelites (Exodus 17:5–6). The subject was frequently portrayed in de Clerck's work; in fact, the Museum owns another Moses Striking the Rock by the Flemish Mannerist master dating from about twenty years later that is exhibited nearby. The theme is apt for a dining room. The decorative nature of the picture, in which the subject matter seems less important than the presentation of a complex and figure-filled composition, is underscored by the abundance of serving vessels, the charming variety of the participants’ poses, the forest setting and a brilliant colourism.