David and Goliath

"David and Goliath," executed by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1655, is a profound and intensely focused example of the Dutch master’s late-career printmaking. This dynamic interpretation of the biblical narrative was created using a sophisticated mix of etching, burin, and drypoint. The artist intentionally utilized some plate tone to enhance the dramatic contrast between light and deep shadow, a characteristic technique known as tenebrism that defines his approach to rendering drama and volume during this period. The impression held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art is notable as the first of five known states, demonstrating the initial sharpness and precise detail of the plate before subsequent reworkings or wear.

Unlike traditional depictions that often focus on the climatic moment of battle, Rembrandt focuses on the immediate aftermath of the victory. The youthful David stands triumphant over the massive, slain body of the Philistine champion, capturing a moment of quiet reflection rather than action. The scene emphasizes the sheer scale difference between the hero and his foe, highlighting David’s reliance on divine intervention rather than physical prowess. Details such as the discarded weapons and Goliath’s large shields lying abandoned underscore the recent fierce combat. Rembrandt’s masterful control over the etching needle allows for subtle variations in line work, effectively rendering the texture of clothing and the sheen of metallic armor.

As an important print in the history of seventeenth-century graphic arts, this work showcases Rembrandt's profound ability to convey complex emotional narratives entirely through black and white media. This specific impression is housed in the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Given its age and significant cultural standing, high-quality images of this print are frequently available through public domain resources, ensuring broad access to this essential piece of Baroque art.