Object Image

David with the Head of Goliath

Here, a hymn of praise is sung to the victorious shepherd David, who holds the head of Goliath impaled on a large sword. The life of King David, as relayed in the Old Testament, was intrinsically linked with music. According to the first book of Chronicles, he initiated the use of music in divine worship in his capacity as the king.

Credit: Gift of Dr. David James

1620s-1630s
Engraving
26.5 x 18.7cm
1966.167
Image and text: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 2023

Where you'll find this

The Cleveland Museum of Art
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Permanent collection