Michelangelo's Moses, statue in Montpellier, Hérault, France
Michelangelo's Moses is a sculpture made from marble powder and resin that depicts the biblical figure with carefully finished details. The statue is mounted on a piece of alabaster that creates a subtle glow when light passes through, making the work stand out.
Michelangelo created the original sculpture in the early 1500s for Pope Julius II's tomb. The work took nearly 30 years to complete, finished in 1542, and has remained as a standalone piece since then.
The name Moses comes from biblical tradition and is shown here as a powerful figure of strength. The depiction with horns follows a European interpretation of scripture that became rooted in art history.
The stone is robust and durable, making the sculpture well-suited for indoor spaces like homes or offices. Its compact size allows for flexible placement on shelves or tables where it can be properly appreciated.
The figure was criticized by artists for being poorly proportioned because Michelangelo originally intended it to be placed high above eye level. When viewed from below, the proportions appear distorted, yet the power of the work remains intact.
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