Artwork

Jesse Sending David to the Camp

Jesse Sending David to the Camp, by Dutch 16th Century, ink, 1556
Jesse Sending David to the Camp, by Dutch 16th Century, ink, 1556

Jesse Sending David to the Camp is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Dutch 16th Century. It dates from 1556 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Jesse Sending David to the Camp is a black-and-white engraving depicting a scene with multiple figures. The work showcases the artist's use of the engraving technique to convey a narrative.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows an older man with a staff, a confident younger man pointing towards a camp, and surrounding figures including a soldier, shepherd, and woman tending to a flock. The younger man's gesture suggests he is giving instructions or sending someone to the camp, set against a backdrop of tents and soldiers.

Technique & Style

The artwork is an example of engraving, a technique used to create detailed images. The black-and-white medium allows for high contrast and nuanced shading, bringing depth to the busy scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Dutch 16th Century

Artist

Dutch 16th Century

This Dutch artist made engravings in the 1550s that retell the biblical story of David and Saul.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.