About this piece
back to topDavid with the head of Goliath after Hendrick de Somer (1602 – 1655) oil on canvas.
A 19th century depiction of the biblical story David and Goliath after the Flemish artist Hendrick de Somer, also known in Italy as Enrico Fiammingo.
David the shepherd stands triumphant, Goliath’s sword in one hand and his severed head in the other. The fateful blow can be seen on the forehead of Goliath, with David’s weapon of choice – a simple sling – in the foreground.
Presented in the tenebrism style favoured by other Baroque artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Caravaggio who both painted their own depictions of the tale. The contrasting Chiaroscuro of the work alludes to David’s life in exile after the victory, pursued by Saul and hiding in caves.
The original, created circa 1645 is held in Nantes art museum.
Our display easel is not included but it is the perfect way to display a frameless canvas, as if left in place by the artist.
