“Samson and Delilah” is a celebrated artwork created by Peter Paul Rubens circa 1609 to 1610. Utilizing the medium of oil on wood, Rubens crafted this piece during the Baroque period, which is renowned for its dramatic use of light and complex compositions. The painting measures 185 by 205 centimeters and embodies the genre of religious painting. It is currently housed in the National Gallery, located in London, United Kingdom.
The artwork is a vivid illustration of the biblical story of Samson and Delilah. In the center, we see Delilah, the Philistine woman who has seduced Samson, a Nazarite who possesses immense strength. Delilah looks on with a mingling of resolution and remorse as a man cuts Samson’s hair—his source of strength—while he sleeps on her lap. To the far right, partially hidden in the background, soldiers wait at the doorway, preparing to capture Samson once his strength has been taken from him. This decisive moment is brought to life through Rubens’ masterful use of color and light, emphasizing the tension and impending betrayal. The richness of the fabrics and the powerful depiction of the human form are characteristic of Rubens’ style and contribute to the dramatic effect. The inclusion of an elderly woman holding a candle to the left further intensifies the scene, casting shadows and illuminating the act of treachery. Rubens’ skillful composition invites the viewer to witness the tragic scene unfold, evoking a sense of both anticipation and foreboding.
