Artwork Page for David Playing the Harp before Saul

Details / Information for David Playing the Harp before Saul

David Playing the Harp before Saul

c. 1508

Lucas van Leyden

(Netherlandish, 1494–about 1533)
Culture
Netherlands, 16th century
Medium
engraving
Credit Line
Gift of Ralph King 1923.774
Catalogue raisonné
Hollstein X.79.27 ; Bartsch VII.27
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

A skillful player of the harp, David was summoned to the court of King Saul in order to console the king who was often tormented by melancholy. Lucas van Leyden masterfully captured the despair of the king who sits uncomfortably upon his throne, his right foot angled convulsively over the left one, his gaze a blank stare. While playing, David looks calmly upon the ruler, as if to convey his confidence that music will provide the necessary balm to soothe the king’s soul.
A vertically oriented print in black ink depicts a young man with wavy hair standing on the left, playing a tall harp. Beside him, a bearded man in a large turban and fur-lined robe sits, clutching a diagonal spear and gazing downward. Several men stand in the background, and carved figures occupy an architectural alcove in the upper right. Fine lines and intricate hatching define the clothing and expressions.

David Playing the Harp before Saul

c. 1508

Lucas van Leyden

(Netherlandish, 1494–about 1533)
Netherlands, 16th century

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