The Submersion of Pharaoh's Army in the Red Sea

The Submersion of Pharaoh's Army in the Red Sea by After Titian (Italian, c. 1488-1576) and published by Domenico dalle Greche (Italian, active 1543-1558) is a monumental work of graphic art dating to the period of 1510-1520. Executed as a large-scale woodcut in black ink on ivory laid paper, this print translates a massive and complex compositional design into the demanding medium of relief printing. While the original design is attributed to Titian, the challenging execution and subsequent publication fell to Domenico dalle Greche, who was instrumental in disseminating the Venetian master’s important narrative compositions across Italy and Europe.

The scene depicts the climactic biblical moment from the Book of Exodus, where the Red Sea closes upon the pursuing Egyptian army, securing the freedom of the Israelites. This piece, produced in Italy, is notable for its ambitious scale, suggesting an attempt to emulate the visual weight of large frescoes or paintings through graphic reproduction. The dense arrangement of struggling figures, drowning horses, and chaotic, sweeping waves exemplifies the high Renaissance style popularized by Titian. This specific print reflects the robust market in 16th-century Venice for reproductive prints, which allowed patrons outside of court circles to access the most celebrated artistic achievements of the period.

As a crucial example of early modern Italian woodcuts, this impressive impression is housed in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. The powerful lines and monumental scale elevate this work beyond mere mechanical reproduction, securing its place as an enduring study in narrative action. Due to its age and significance, this historic artwork is often available for study through public domain resources, benefiting scholars worldwide.