Ontmoeting van David en Abigaïl 1630 - 1677

Adriaen Lommelin created this engraving titled 'The Meeting of David and Abigail' in the 17th century. The artwork depicts a biblical scene, reflecting the cultural and religious values of the time. Lommelin presents Abigail, surrounded by her servants, offering gifts to David. This act of submission and negotiation is laden with gendered power dynamics, portraying Abigail in a role of appeasement. We are invited to consider how women navigated patriarchal societies, often using diplomacy to mitigate conflict. The presence of David’s soldiers contrasts sharply with Abigail's group, highlighting the disparities in power. Lommelin masterfully captures a moment of supplication, revealing the intricate dance between power, gender, and survival. The expressions on the figures' faces offer an emotional insight into this pivotal encounter, a story of negotiation and survival.