David Playing the Harp Before Saul c. 1508

Lucas van Leyden’s “David Playing the Harp Before Saul” is an engraving depicting a biblical scene where David plays the harp for King Saul to alleviate his troubled mind. Created in 1508, this work exemplifies Leyden's mastery of detail and nuanced expression. The composition emphasizes the interaction between the two figures, with David's focused attention on the harp contrasting with Saul's melancholic gaze. The engraved lines create a sense of depth and texture, rendering the figures and their surroundings with remarkable clarity. This piece demonstrates Leyden's commitment to realistic depictions of biblical narratives, earning him recognition as a leading figure in Northern Renaissance printmaking.