Musa in Egypt

A selection of vivid Persian paintings from the 15th to the 19th centuries, telling the story of Moses according to Islamic tradition. In contrast to Judaism, which emphasizes Moses' role as lawgiver and as the leader who delivered the Israelites from bondage, Islam focuses on Moses' prophetic mission and his struggles with theinfidels. The paintings depict central scenes in Moses’ life, including his birth and his deliverance from the hands of Pharaoh's soldiers, as well as his confrontations with Korah and his followers. Pharaoh and His Army Drown in the SeaIsfahan, Iran, Qajar style, 19th century Watercolor and gold on lacquered cardboard The Israel Museum, Jerusalem Bequest of Yuhanna Dawud, London Moses’ Staff Changes into a Dragon that Threatens Pharaoh Illustration from a Persian manuscript Iran, 17th century Watercolor and gold on paper The Israel Museum, Jerusalem Bequest of Yuhanna Dawud, London Moses’ Staff Changes into a Dragon that Threatens Pharaoh Isfahan, Iran, Qajar style, 19th century Watercolor and gold on lacquered cardboard The Israel Museum, Jerusalem Bequest of Yuhanna Dawud, London