Samson Slays the Lion 1842

This painting by Francesco Hayez, completed in 1842, depicts the biblical story of Samson slaying a lion. Samson, a powerful Israelite warrior, is depicted standing over the lion, his bare chest and muscular physique emphasizing his strength. The dramatic chiaroscuro and detailed anatomical rendering of Samson's body convey the physicality and power of the biblical hero, while the subdued background and focus on the central figures create a sense of tension and anticipation, inviting viewers to ponder Samson's heroic feat. This Neoclassical painting can be viewed at the Palazzo Pitti in Florence.