Salomo wordt tot koning gezalfd 1560 - 1595

This undated print, “Salomo wordt tot koning gezalfd”, meaning Solomon is anointed king, presents a scene rich in symbolic visual elements. The composition is dense, filled with figures and architectural details meticulously rendered. Observe how the engraver uses line and contrast to direct our attention to the central act of anointment. Solomon kneels, almost collapsing under the weight of the moment, as he is crowned. The lines are fine, creating a rich texture that adds depth to the scene, yet they also serve to delineate power structures. The engraver juxtaposes Solomon's vulnerability with the imposing figures surrounding him. The engraver creates a visual hierarchy through the size and placement of each person. The print operates within a semiotic system of signs where objects, gestures, and space convey specific cultural codes related to authority, legitimacy, and divine right. The architectural backdrop and the details of the clothing establish the historical and cultural context, inviting viewers to consider the implications of leadership, succession, and divine validation. How does this image challenge our understanding of power? What happens when symbols of authority intersect with moments of human vulnerability?