Old Masters to 19th Century

Pierto Della Vecchia, "Saul and David with head of Goliath"

Many artists have been commissioned to illustrate the story of David and Goliath, and usually the scene is painted with the young David as the victorious contestant holding Goliath's head in his hand. Pietro della Vecchia chose a different focus, however - that of the inner turmoil of King Saul and the fear and jealousy which he felt toward his younger opponent.

The artist built on (used) dramatic visual elements in his depiction of the story: Goliath's head, dripping blood, increases the feeling of horror. King Saul is wearing heavy armour, as befits the leader of the military contingent which was to fight against Goliath. His mental state is indicated by the wildness of his hair and the leather straps flying from his armor. The contrast of light and shade underline the psychological message of the picture. The name Pietro Della Vecchia, means "Pietro who paints in the style of the ancient artists" and was given to the artist because, in his painting, he would add his own interpretation of the style of the Venetian Renaissance. Thus, in the painting before us, there are influences from the artists Giogione, Titian and Caravaggio.

Maurycy Gottlieb | Gerard Honthorst | Vincent Sellaer
Nichola Tornier | Jan Breughel the Younger and Hendrik van Balen
Louis Comfort Tiffany | Peter Paul Rubens

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