Saul and David
Rembrandt van Rijn
Whether this painting was a genuine Rembrandt was in doubt for many years. As a result, it has undergone extensive research and conservation treatment over the past few years. It is now back on display and the verdict is in: Saul and David is indeed a Rembrandt.
The Biblical king Saul suffers from bouts of depression and is soothed by the young David who plays the harp for him. In a particularly striking detail, Saul dries his tears on the curtain. But Saul will soon fly into a rage and throw his spear at David.
oil on canvas
130 x 164.5 cm.
Bequest A. Bredius, The Hague, 1946