Solomon Led to Idolatry by His Wives

Solomon Led to Idolatry by His Wives

Raphael Sadeler I

1589

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white engraving shows a crowded scene with a king sitting on a throne in the center. Around him, women in flowing robes are either kneeling, reaching toward him, or pointing at something. One woman holds a crown, another plays a lyre, and others gesture dramatically. The background has columns and statues, giving it a grand, temple-like feel. The king looks older, with a long beard, while the women around him seem to be pulling him toward different directions—some with serious faces, others more urgent. The lines in the image are sharp and detailed, showing how the artist used small marks to create shadows and textures. If you like this style, look up engraving to see how artists like Sadeler I made intricate prints.

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