Finding of Moses Pharaoh’s daughter Konstantin Flavizky (1830-1866)

The composition presents a narrative scene unfolding within a landscape dominated by warm, ochre tones and lush vegetation. A group of figures is arranged around a central event: the discovery of an infant. The setting appears to be near a body of water, with a city visible in the distance under a hazy sky.
A woman, presumably of noble status given her attire and posture, kneels attentively beside a woven basket containing the child. Her gesture – an outstretched hand towards the baby – suggests both surprise and tenderness. The infant lies within the basket, seemingly undisturbed by the commotion around him. A dark-skinned man stands nearby, his gaze directed toward the woman and the child, hinting at a protective or servant role.
Further into the scene, several other figures are present. One individual, riding an animal draped in cloth, appears to be observing the event from a slight distance. Another figure, seemingly a young attendant, holds a basket filled with provisions, adding a domestic element to the otherwise momentous occasion. The positioning of these secondary characters contributes to the sense of a larger narrative unfolding beyond the immediate focus on the infant and the woman.
The artist has employed light and shadow to direct attention toward key elements. The child is bathed in a soft glow, emphasizing his vulnerability and importance within the story. The landscape itself is rendered with considerable detail, utilizing variations in color and texture to create depth and atmosphere. Palm trees and other foliage frame the scene, contributing to an exotic and somewhat idealized depiction of ancient Egypt.
Subtleties within the painting suggest a complex interplay of power, fate, and divine intervention. The woman’s kneeling posture can be interpreted as a sign of humility before something greater than herself – perhaps acknowledging a destiny she cannot fully comprehend. The presence of the distant city implies a connection to established authority, while the natural setting underscores the vulnerability of the child in this context. The overall effect is one of quiet drama and anticipation, hinting at the profound consequences that will follow from this initial encounter.