Europe, Italy, ca. 18th century CE. A large and beautifully composed oil painting depicting the biblical couple David and Bathsheba in the foreground. Bathsheba is clothed which was more typical of Renaissance depictions and holds a copper water pitcher, signifying the famed bath that brought these two together. The figures in this painting are skillfully depicted close to the picture plane set in an ideal landscape with the palace in the background, David and Bathsheba lovingly and dramatically gesturing toward one another with their bodies and emotive visages. Deep jewel tones of the academic style. As the story goes, one evening David was walking on the roof of his palace when he noticed a beautiful woman bathing. The lovely female was Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite who was then serving in David's army. David somewhat arrogantly had her brought to the palace and seduced her. She soon became pregnant; David sent Uriah to meet his death in battle and then married Bathsheba. The forbidden couple's child only survived a few days, and David did penance for his wrongdoings. Quite the drama, rivaling the saucy stuff of today's soap operas! Size: 20" W x 25.25" H (50.8 cm x 64.1 cm).

Provenance: Ex- Private M. Reiniger collection, Chicago, IL

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#111301

A few small holes and abrasions to the canvas, particularly at Bathsheba's foot and near her veil. Minor scratches here and there. Original stretcher bars.