Artwork
Saul uns rege de către Samuel
Saul uns rege de către Samuel is an unspecified painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Brukenthal National Museum.
About this work
Overview
The work depicts a gathering of figures dressed in historic attire, centered on a man in a blue robe with a gold belt who gestures toward a woman cradling an infant. A kneeling figure in red armor stands beside the mother, while additional onlookers occupy the surrounding space. The palette is dominated by bright yet muted reds, blues, and earth tones, creating a subdued yet vivid scene.
Subject & Meaning
The central interaction suggests a moment of instruction or blessing, with the robed figure appearing to address the mother and child. The presence of the armored kneeler adds a tone of solemnity, implying a narrative of protection or authority surrounding the family unit.
Technique & Style
The composition employs chiaroscuro, contrasting illuminated areas with deep shadows to model the figures and give a sense of three‑dimensional depth. The handling of color is relatively bright but shows signs of fading, particularly in the reds and blues, which enhances the atmospheric quality of the scene.
History & Provenance
No specific provenance or dating information is provided for the image; the description focuses on visual elements rather than documented origins or ownership history.
Context
The attire and armor suggest a historical or biblical setting, with the blue‑robed figure possibly representing a religious or regal authority and the red‑armored individual indicating a martial presence within the same narrative framework.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
Adoration of the Magi
Alexandru cel Mare și Diogene
The Finding of the Money in Benjamin's Sack
La copa en el saco de Benjamín
Fiii lui Iacob aduc hainele însângerate ale lui Iosif
The reconciliation of Jacob and Esau: Esau runs to meet Jacob and kisses him (Genesis 33:3-4)
Adoration of the Golden Calf
Abraham und Melchisedek
Casimir the Great
Abraham and the Angels
Return of Jephthae
The Patron Saints of the Crotta Family