Ships on the Red Sea and the Rock of Rephidim – Dutch Biblical Engraving c.1776
Description: This intriguing antique engraving from the late 18th century presents two distinct yet thematically connected scenes of biblical and historical interest. The upper half depicts ships in the Red Sea, specifically near Suez, based on Dutch interpretations of typical Eastern vessels. The sailing ships are drawn with graceful lines, set against a lively sea and sky, with a fleet in the distance suggesting commercial or exploratory activity.
The Dutch caption reads: *Schepen, te Suez op de Roode Zee gebruiklyk, verbeeldende een Oostersch Roer,* which translates to: "Ships, used at Suez on the Red Sea, depicting an Eastern Rudder." This part of the engraving offers valuable insight into how 18th-century Europeans envisioned maritime activity in the East and ties it symbolically to biblical geography.
The lower half of the plate is more explicitly religious, illustrating four views of the "Rock of Rephidim"—the stone that Moses struck to bring forth water for the Israelites during their desert journey, according to the Book of Exodus. Each view is carefully labelled (e.g., from the south, east, front, and west) and shows the fissure in the rock that was believed to have delivered the miraculous water. The Dutch text reads: 'Afbeelding van den Rotssteen in Raphidim,' or "Depiction of the Rock Stone in Rephidim."
Together, these two panels reflect the Enlightenment-era fascination with reconciling travel observation, cartography, and biblical events. They also exemplify the Dutch tradition of combining scientific exploration with scriptural interpretation in printed form.
Condition: Strong impression on laid paper with generous margins. Slight toning and minor edge wear, mostly limited to the upper right corner. Vertical centerfold as issued. Overall very good condition for its age.
Framing tips: A warm walnut or ebonized frame with a light cream mount would highlight the crisp engraving. A double mount—perhaps with a thin inner border in navy or rust—would subtly enhance both the maritime and desert elements of the plate.
Technique: Engraving Maker: Anonymous, Netherlands, circa 1790
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