Who painted The Judgment of Solomon?

The Judgment of Solomon was painted by Jean Duvet in 1516.

Where can I see The Judgment of Solomon?

The Judgment of Solomon is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Judgment of Solomon?

The Judgment of Solomon is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Judgment of Solomon?

Museum-quality prints of The Judgment of Solomon are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Judgment of Solomon

Jean Duvet , 1516

The Judgment of Solomon is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jean Duvet. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:"C 9903" verso, lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand. "74 807" verso, lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand. "Pass [illeg?] 64 lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand. "RD x 87" verso, lower center margin, graphite, unknown hand. "S 38967" verso, lower center margin, graphite, unknown hand.
Markings: Marked:Friedrich August II (Lugt 972) recto, on plate, lower right corner, partial stamp in black ink. "National Gallery of Art, LJR" verso, lower center, black stamped ink.

About this work

Overview

The Judgment of Solomon is an engraving on laid paper created by Jean Duvet, a French goldsmith and engraver, around 1516.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a pivotal scene from a biblical story where King Solomon determines the true mother of a disputed baby. Two women argue over the child, surrounded by onlookers, as the king listens from a raised chair.

Technique & Style

Duvet's engraving is characterized by fine lines that create shadows and depth, resulting in a dramatic scene. The crowded composition and naive quality are hallmarks of his highly personal style, which is distinct from typical Renaissance printmaking.

History & Provenance

Jean Duvet was active from at least 1485 to after 1562 and is considered the first significant French printmaker, having produced around 73 known plates.