Solomon's Idolatry, 1514

Engravingexpand_more

Gift of Herschel V. Jones, 1926expand_more  P.10,629

Not on Viewexpand_more

This engraving demonstrates the Netherlandish love of allusion. As Solomon's wife urges him to worship a pagan idol, her finger appears to touch the nose of a man in the crowd, perhaps a visual joke about her leading Solomon around by the nose. The pillar, a traditional symbol of spiritual fortitude, fails to block a young man's view of Solomon's folly. As for the idol, it is a lusty satyr with an unsteady perch on fickle Fortune's globe.

Details
Title
Solomon's Idolatry
Artist Life
c. 1490 - 1533
Role
Artist
Accession Number
P.10,629
Catalogue Raisonne
NGA 46; H.30 os; B.30, 354; V.28
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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