Who painted Samson and Delilah?

Samson and Delilah was painted by Lucas van Leyden in 1507.

Where can I see Samson and Delilah?

Samson and Delilah is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Samson and Delilah?

Samson and Delilah is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Samson and Delilah

Lucas van Leyden , 1507

Samson and Delilah is a print by the Renaissance artist Lucas van Leyden. It dates from 1507 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Samson and Delilah, a print by Lucas van Leyden, dates to circa 1507. This work exemplifies the Northern Renaissance's blend of narrative depth and meticulous detail, characteristic of the artist's innovative approach.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates the pivotal moment from the biblical tale of Samson and Delilah, where Delilah betrays Samson by cutting his hair, the source of his strength. The scene conveys tension and drama, capturing the narrative's emotional intensity.

Technique & Style

Van Leyden's technical precision is evident in the realistic rendering of figures, attention to texture and anatomy, and the effective use of chiaroscuro to create depth and draw focus to the central action.

History & Provenance

Created during the Northern Renaissance, this work reflects Van Leyden's early adoption of genre painting. It is currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Artist

Lucas van Leyden

Lucas van Leyden (1494 – 8 August 1533), was a Dutch painter and printmaker in engraving and woodcut. Lucas van Leyden was among the first Dutch exponents of genre painting and was a very accomplished engraver.