Judgment of Solomon, from Thronus Justitiae, tredecim pulcherrimus tabulis..., plate 2 1605 - 1606

Willem van Swanenburg's 17th-century etching "Judgment of Solomon" depicts a scene from the Bible in which King Solomon, known for his wisdom, is tasked with resolving a dispute between two women claiming to be the mother of the same child. The artwork, part of a series titled "Thronus Justitiae," showcases the artist's masterful use of light and shadow, creating a dramatic and realistic portrayal of the courtroom scene. Swanenburg's etching, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a compelling visual interpretation of a classic biblical story, highlighting the power of justice and the complexities of human emotion.