Lamentations over the Death of the First-born of Egypt 1877

"Lamentations over the Death of the First-born of Egypt" (1877) by Charles Sprague Pearce depicts a poignant scene of grief and sorrow. The painting showcases the emotional aftermath of the tenth plague, a significant event in the biblical story of Exodus. It features two figures, likely a man and woman, draped in somber clothing, their postures and expressions conveying deep distress as they mourn the loss of a child. The presence of a decorative sarcophagus in the foreground reinforces the theme of death and loss. Pearce's masterful use of light and shadow, combined with the evocative poses of the figures, effectively captures the raw emotion of the moment, making this a moving and memorable work of art.