Scene
The painting shows the Israelites worshipping a golden calf on an ornate pedestal. In the upper left, Moses returns holding the tablets of the Law above his head.
The Adoration of the Golden Calf
Nicolas Poussin
1633
Figures
Aaron stands in a white cloak as the instigator of the idol's creation. Moses appears visibly enraged, surrounded by energetic dancers and kneeling worshippers.
Symbolism
The golden calf represents the Egyptian deity Apis and false idolatry. A dry tree on the right and a leafy tree on the left contrast spiritual death with life.
Craft
Poussin uses a frieze-like arrangement of figures with muscular bodies and flowing drapery inspired by antique sculpture.
Impact
The work serves as a visual warning about idolatry and the seductive power of images. It influenced later artists including Cézanne and Picasso.
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Craft
