David and Goliath
c. 1609-1610 Galleria Borghese, Rome
About this artwork
This powerful oil painting depicts the biblical hero David holding the severed head of the giant Goliath. It is celebrated for its dramatic chiaroscuro and the raw, unidealized portrayal of its subjects.
Did you know?
Caravaggio painted several versions of "David with the Head of Goliath," and it is widely believed that he depicted himself as the severed head of Goliath in this particular version, possibly as a form of self-punishment or seeking penance for his own violent deeds. The youthful David, often seen as representing purity, contrasts sharply with the grotesque, aging head, making it a profound meditation on mortality, sin, and redemption. This personal touch adds a deep psychological layer to the biblical narrative.
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David and Goliath
Michelangelo da Caravaggio, c. 1609-1610
