David Playing the Harp before Saul

1531

Christoph Bockstorfer

Associated Names
Christoph Bockstorfer

Artist, German, 1490 - 1553

David Funck

Publisher, German, 1642 - 1709

This is a drawing depicting a narrative scene set in an architectural interior. The image shows multiple figures engaged in what seems to be a historical or biblical story. A figure on the left, holding a harp, is speaking to another figure seated on a throne to the right, who is crowned and dressed regally. An intermediary figure stands between them holding a staff, with a small object on a table nearby. The background includes a landscape visible through an arcade, featuring rolling hills and a building. The piece is highly detailed, showcasing intricate decorative elements on the columns, throne, and surrounding architecture. The style is reminiscent of detailed Renaissance drawings that combine allegorical and historical storytelling with rich architectural elements.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Ruth Cole Kainen

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 20.8 × 28.6 cm (8 3/16 × 11 1/4 in.) (trimmed)

  • Accession Number

    2012.92.547

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 1, State ii/ii


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Paul Prouté S.A., Paris); Ruth Kainen, Washington, D.C., purchased June 15, 1971; Gift to NGA, 2012.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberge: no. 1, ii/ii

Inscriptions

monogrammed and dated in image, at lower left: 1531 CB; numbered in image, at lower left: 35; lettered in image, at upper right: IN ERSTE BOVCH SAMOEL / DAS XVI CAPITEL

Wikidata ID

Q76557150

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