Setting up the Copper Snake

Hi everyone! My name is Isabella, and I'm so excited to show you a really cool painting! It's called "Setting up the Copper Snake," and it's super old – from way back in 1551! It's like a snapshot from a story in the Bible. Does anyone know the Bible? It's a book with lots of amazing stories. nn
nn This painting is HUGE! Imagine it being taller than you are! It shows a really important moment. There's a tall pole, and a big snake is wrapped around it. This snake isn't just any snake; it's a special snake that can heal people! Can you imagine having a magical healing snake? What would you do if you had one? nn
nn Look closely! See all the people? They're not feeling very well. They're sick and sad. Some are lying on the ground, and others are reaching up towards the snake. They really want to get better, don't they? What do you think they are feeling? nn
nn The artist, Maarten van Heemskerck, was super clever with his colors. He mostly used grays, but look how he uses the light! It makes some parts of the painting really bright and others really dark. It's like a spotlight shining on the people. This makes the painting feel dramatic and exciting, doesn't it? nn
nn See those two people standing a little higher up? They might be Moses and Aaron, important people from the Bible story. They're watching over everyone. What do you think they are thinking? nn
nn This painting isn't just about a story; it's about hope and healing. It shows that even when things are tough, there's always a chance to get better. It's a powerful message, isn't it? What do you think the artist wanted us to feel when we look at this painting? nn
nn So, what did you think of "Setting up the Copper Snake"? Wasn't it amazing? Remember, art can tell us stories and make us feel things, even if it's from hundreds of years ago! Now, let's go see some more amazing art!