537 - After RENI (*1575), David with Goliath’s head, Mezzotint

After RENI (*1575), David with Goliath’s head, Mezzotint After Guido Reni (1575 Calvenzano - 1642 Bologna): David as victor over Goliath in a classic architectural setting, 18th century, Mezzotint Technique: Mezzotint on Paper Date: 18th century Description: The youthful David is depicted in a heroic pose, dressed in a fur cape and wearing a feathered hat on his head, while he presents the severed head of the giant Goliath on a ledge. The scene is embedded in antique-style architecture with columns and a diagonally tiled floor, with a heavy curtain floating above. The mezzotint technique emphasises the dramatic chiaroscuro, particularly in the contrast between naked skin, dark interior and the sculpturally modelled head of Goliath. Keywords: David and Goliath; Biblical motif; Heroic representation; Mezzotint; Baroque; Classical architecture; Victory over evil; Helmet with feather; Pelt cloak; Dramatic light; Hall of pillars; Old Testament theme; Symbolic representation; Body representation; Rich contrast; Sword; Curtain; Young man; Pathetic pose; Representational art; 18th century; Baroque; Biblical; Italy; Size: Paper: 36,2 cm x 26,2 cm (14,3 x 10,3 in), Plate: 36,1 cm x 25,3 cm (14,2 x 10 in), Depiction: 33,5 cm x 25,2 cm (13,2 x 9,9 in) Condition: Good condition. Slightly discoloured due to age. Occasionally slightly stained. With creases at the corners. With strong blackening and finely graded tones. The print surface is clean. Details such as musculature, garment textures and architectural elements are clearly differentiated and carefully worked out.