David with the Head of Goliath Welcomed by King Saul and the Women of Israel
Oil painting on canvas (likely relined) • Circle of Peter Paul Rubens; possibly Attributed to Jan Boeckhorst or Frans Wouters.
Style & Movement
Flemish Baroque
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; features dramatic chiaroscuro, fluid brushwork, and vigorous impasto highlights characteristic of the Flemish Baroque style.
Creation Period
Mid-17th century, circa 1640–1660
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 60 x 80 cm; Landscape format
Subject Description
A narrative scene from the Old Testament (1 Samuel 18:6-7) depicting the young David returning from battle holding the severed head of Goliath. He is met by King Saul on horseback and a group of women playing tambourines and singing his praises. The composition uses a dynamic diagonal arrangement with a backdrop of a ruined fortification and a theatrical, stormy sky.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; exhibiting significant surface dirt, aged varnish, and visible craquelure throughout.
Estimated Market Value
$15,000 – $25,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$8,000 – $12,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; stylistic traits point to a Northern European origin, likely Belgium (Antwerp). No visible collector stamps are present in the provided image, but the frame and canvas mounting suggest 19th-century gallery handling.
Art Historical Significance
The work is a significant example of the dissemination of the Rubensian style in the mid-17th century. It demonstrates the high demand for historical and biblical scenes executed with the energy and fleshy palette popularized by Rubens' workshop.
Notable Features
The energetic movement of the figures and the 'Rubenesque' physiognomy of the women are particularly characteristic. The use of a dramatic, low-horizon sky enhances the heroic stature of the figures.
Condition Issues
Notable surface grime and yellowed varnish; stable craquelure pattern; potential minor paint losses near the edges; frame abrasions; possible historical relining as evidenced by the tension of the canvas surface.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning and varnish removal/replacement; stabilization of any lifting paint layers; archival framing and placement in a climate-controlled environment with UV-filtered lighting.
Collector Notes
17th c Ruben's school