Samson and Delilah, c. 1508
Lucas Huygensz van Leydenexpand_more
Engravingexpand_more
Bequest of Herschel V. Jonesexpand_more P.68.197
Not on Viewexpand_more
Lucas van Leyden was more absorbed by the Power of Women theme than any other artist of his day, and he got an early start, executing this remarkable print at about age 14. Delilah teases and titillates until Samson divulges the source of his power. Prone on her lap, he represents Lucas's first attempt at foreshortening. Yet even in sleep his hand and leg jerk, as if to ward off the evil that is afoot. At the snip of her scissors, Delilah seems to summon the Philistine soldiers who will seize him.
Details
- Title
- Samson and Delilah
- Artist Life
- c. 1490 - 1533
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.68.197
- Provenance
- Nicolas Smith, L.2297; George W. Reid, L.1210; Lawson Thompson, L.1770; Kennedy, 1925
- Catalogue Raisonne
- NGA 10; B.25; Holl.25 i/ii
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These 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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