David and Goliath 1620

Jusepe de Ribera's "David and Goliath" from 1620 depicts the biblical story of the young shepherd David's victory over the giant Goliath. The painting's dramatic use of tenebrism, a technique characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, highlights the tension of the scene. The young David, with his sword raised, stands over the severed head of Goliath, his gaze directed upwards in a gesture of reverence. Ribera's masterful use of chiaroscuro emphasizes the physicality of the figures and creates a sense of depth and realism, typical of the Baroque style prevalent in Spain during the early 17th century.