Artwork

David with the Head of Goliath

David with the Head of Goliath, by Guido Reni, oil, 1605
David with the Head of Goliath, by Guido Reni, oil, 1605

David with the Head of Goliath is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Guido Reni. It dates from 1605 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.

About this work

Overview

David with the Head of Goliath is an oil painting by Guido Reni, created in 1605. It is a representation of a biblical scene, held at the Uffizi Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts David standing with a sword in one hand and Goliath's severed head in the other, wearing a red feathered hat and fur-trimmed cape. The scene is a representation of the biblical narrative where David defeats Goliath.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth. A single light source from the left side of the painting highlights David and Goliath's head, set against a dark background, adding to the drama of the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Guido Reni

Artist

Guido Reni

Guido Reni was an Italian Baroque painter, although his works showed a classical manner, similar to Simon Vouet, Nicolas Poussin, and Philippe de Champaigne.

Uffizi Gallery

Museum

Uffizi Gallery

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