1556
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
David with Goliath's Head before Saul is a 1556 ink by Dutch 16th Century, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving shows a chaotic battle scene with lots of figures tangled together. One man in the center holds a giant’s severed head by the hair, while others fight around him with swords and spears. The background is packed with buildings and swirling lines that make it look busy and dramatic. The text at the bottom hints this is a biblical story—someone named David is showing Saul the head of Goliath, the giant he just defeated. The artist used sharp lines and shading to create depth and movement. Next, look up technique: engraving to see how these detailed lines were made.
This Dutch artist made engravings in the 1550s that retell the biblical story of David and Saul.
See the richer artist page
