In the Clefts of the Rock, 1998

Acrylic with 23 kt. Gold Leaf on Paper

26 x 15.5 ″, framed: 35.25 x 24.25 x 2 ″

Highly influenced by the artistic principles of the Neoclassical Period and the idealized images of Maxfield Parrish, Manuel Nuñez captures a figure of feminine pulchritude adorned in a classical gown seated on a rock surrounded by crashing waves. The harmonic scene is exquisitely balanced with a background of electric violets, radiant reds and rich glowing earth tone pigments contrasted by the lapis lazuli or ‘Parrish Blue’ waters, all framed in a perfectly idealistic world with the gilt gold columns. The title of the painting and the biblical verse that inspired the piece, which is scribed on the verso (backside) of the painting, is richly metaphoric and speaks to themes of innocence, fragility, beauty, love and protection. Inscribed on the verso (backside) of the painting: Song of Solomon 2:14 “O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, Let me see thy countenance, Let me hear thy voice, For sweet is thy voice, And thy countenance is comely.” While naturally seeking protection from a tumultuous world, like a dove making its nest in the clefts of the rock, God speaks to the church saying that the purity and beauty of our soul should not be hidden away but should be seen and rejoiced. Manuel’s use of the woman in this painting represents the protective peace that God bestows upon his followers; while surrounded by a world of uncertainty, she can sit confidently and peacefully on his rock of salvation.