Artwork
The Power of Women: Samson and Delilah
The Power of Women: Samson and Delilah is a print by the Renaissance artist Lucas van Leyden. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Power of Women: Samson and Delilah is a 1518 print by Lucas van Leyden, a Dutch artist known for his engravings and woodcuts.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates the biblical story of Samson and Delilah, capturing the moment when Delilah betrays Samson by cutting his hair. The scene conveys a narrative of deception and loss of power, exemplifying the theme of women's power over men.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by a detailed and realistic style, with intricate textures and shading. The figures are rendered with expressive detail, as seen in the patterned dress and the musculature of the male figure.
History & Provenance
The print is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art. It is an example of early Dutch genre painting, which blended narrative with detailed human expression.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
Salome with the head of St John the Baptist
The Virgin and Child
Worship of the Golden Calf
A Game of Chess
Mary with Child, St. Maria Magdalena and founder (separate outside, Inv. No. 7713)
Inner left wing of a diptych with Christ as the Man of Sorrows
Inner right wing of a diptych with the Virgin as Mater Dolorosa
Annunciation
