Plate 17: David Returning in Triumph with the Head of Goliath, from 'The Battles of the Old Testament' 1585 - 1615

Antonio Tempesta created this print, Plate 17: David Returning in Triumph with the Head of Goliath, from 'The Battles of the Old Testament', using etching in the late 16th or early 17th century. The image depicts David's triumphant return after defeating Goliath, a popular subject in European art that was used to explore ideas of heroism and divine favor. The visual codes of the print, such as the classical armor and triumphal procession, situate this biblical story within a specifically European, early modern context. Made in Italy, where the Catholic Church was a major patron of the arts, Tempesta's print reflects the Church's investment in biblical narratives. Yet it also partakes in a broader European fascination with warfare and military might, evidenced by the detailed depiction of soldiers and weaponry. The meaning of this print is contingent on its historical context. Through careful examination of period sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.