woman kneeling at L before a ruler seated on throne at R; baby at woman's knee and king's foot; a female figure with other male figures in background; open archway at L overlooking masonry structures

Judgment of Solomon, From Stories of the Old Testament, c. 1531

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Old Testament stories proliferated in Germany’s climate of religious reform—in prints, plays, and preaching. Protestant leader Martin Luther prized their simple lessons of suffering, faith, and civic virtue. Here two women claim that a child is theirs (1 Kings 3:16-27). King Solomon threatens to slice the child in two, at which point one woman gives up her claim, proving herself to be the real mother. The triangular composition reinforces the strength of Solomon’s authority.

Details
Title
Judgment of Solomon, From Stories of the Old Testament
Artist Life
active c. 1500–1550
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2015.93.27
Provenance
John E. Andrus III, Wayzata, Minn.; by descent to his daughters, Elizabeth, Katie, and Julie; gave to MIA, 2015. Earlier provenances have been gathered, but further research will increase our knowledge of their histories.
Catalogue Raisonne
Bartsch 23 (vol. 8, p. 326); Hollstein 16; Landau 24 (only state)
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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woman kneeling at L before a ruler seated on throne at R; baby at woman's knee and king's foot; a female figure with other male figures in background; open archway at L overlooking masonry structures