The Adoration of the Golden Calf c. 1701 - 1750

Here we see an anonymous artist’s interpretation of “The Adoration of the Golden Calf”, an oil on canvas now housed in the Städel Museum. The story originates from the Book of Exodus, where the Israelites, impatient with Moses' absence, build and worship a golden calf. How might we understand this moment of idolatry and collective frenzy? The painting invites us to consider the dynamics of leadership, faith, and societal expectations. The Israelites' act can be seen as a desperate attempt to regain control and forge a tangible symbol of hope and stability in a time of uncertainty. Is it a moment of defiance against a distant, unseen authority? Or is it a reflection of a deeper human need for connection and belonging? The painting holds a mirror to our own anxieties. It is a story about a community grappling with fear, longing, and the ever-present temptation to create gods in our own image.