David und Saul (1919)

Christian Rohlfs' expressive painting "David und Saul" painted in 1919 is a striking depiction of the complex biblical narrative involving David and King Saul. This artwork portrays a scene steeped in emotional and psychological intensity, which captures the viewer's attention through its abstracted forms and vivid composition.In the painting, two prominent figures are depicted: to the left sits King Saul, adorned with a crown and holding a spear, his expression tense and contemplative. His body language and facial expression suggest a mix of suspicion and internal conflict, likely reflecting the biblical story where Saul becomes envious and fearful of David's rising popularity and divine favor. To the right, the figure of David is rendered with a youthful visage, positioned somewhat below Saul, suggesting his subordinate status at that point in time. David appears calm, almost somber, playing a harp, an act he is famously known for as he played to soothe Saul's troubled spirit.The use of color and abstract forms in Rohlfs' painting adds to the emotional depth of the scene. The brushstrokes are loose, with earthy tones dominating the palette, punctuated by the greens of David's attire, which may symbolize his vitality and the divine favor he enjoys.