David 1585 - 1589

Jacob Matham's 1589 engraving "David" depicts the biblical hero holding the severed head of Goliath. This work, typical of Mannerist style, uses dramatic foreshortening and exaggerated poses. The detailed, highly realistic depiction of David's musculature and the intensity of the moment contribute to the powerful narrative. The print's composition, with David standing triumphantly against a mountainous landscape, exemplifies the artist's skill in representing both human anatomy and historical subject matter. The engraving, held in the Rijksmuseum, is a fine example of Matham's mastery of the medium.