David wordt door Samuel gezalfd 1554 - 1646

This engraving, “David wordt door Samuel gezalfd,” depicts the biblical story of Samuel anointing David as King of Israel. Although the artist is anonymous, the work itself speaks volumes about the cultural and religious context in which it was produced. The scene is rendered with careful attention to detail, evident in the architecture and the classical drapery, typical of the era. The act of anointing, signifying divine favor and authority, underscores the importance of religious legitimacy in governance. Created in the Netherlands, this work reflects the religious and political tensions of the time, specifically concerning the role of the church and state. The narrative of David, a divinely chosen leader, might have been used to comment on contemporary issues of leadership and authority. To further understand the engraving, we might consider the history of biblical illustration, the role of the church, and the political climate of the Dutch Golden Age. Understanding the social and institutional context allows for a deeper appreciation of the artwork's meaning.