The artwork titled “David sings accompanying himself in the harp before Saul, and relieves his suffering (I Samuel, XVI, 19-23)” was crafted by Marc Chagall around 1956 in France. This piece, created using the etching technique on paper, belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and measures 30.7 x 24.8 cm. It is categorized as a religious painting and is part of the series “Etchings for the Bible (1930-1939; 1952-1956)”.
The artwork depicts a poignant biblical scene where David is shown playing a harp to alleviate King Saul’s torment. David, seated and gently playing the harp, emanates a sense of calm and devotion, while Saul, adorned with a crown and seated on a grand ornate throne, appears distressed, clutching his head and heart in anguish. The background features stone columns and a tiled floor, adding to the regal yet somber atmosphere. Chagall’s etching technique brings forth an intimate and emotional depth to the scene, emphasizing the spiritual and soothing connection between the music and Saul’s relief.
