Koning David speelt op de harp 1607 - 1637

Willem de Passe's engraving presents King David playing the harp, a symbol rich with cultural and religious significance. The harp, prominently displayed, embodies divine inspiration and the power of music to connect with the divine. This motif transcends time, echoing in ancient Greek depictions of Apollo with his lyre, both instruments symbolizing harmony and spiritual enlightenment. Consider the gesture of David's upturned gaze, reminiscent of countless depictions of saints and prophets in prayer. This posture signifies devotion, a reaching towards the heavens, an appeal to a higher power, seen across cultures and epochs. Note how the crown lies discarded, perhaps a comment on how spiritual devotion eclipses earthly power? These symbols speak to our collective memory, resonating with a primal understanding of spirituality and artistic expression, continually resurfacing, evolving, and shaping new interpretations throughout history.