18. Augustin Hirschvogel
(ca. 1503-1553)

David's Triumph over Goliath

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Hirschvogel: David's Triumph

David's Triumph over Goliath

Etching, 1547, 117 x 148 mm., Bartsch 1.84 from Concordantzen Altes und Neues Testaments. Fine, strong impression, slightly dry at the lower left, on laid paper with part of an imperial orb (?) watermark, trimmed along the platemark, narrow margin in places. Hirschvogel is known for his rare (and expensive) etched landscapes, but his abilities are also evident in his other works. The Concordantzen comprises images from both the Old and New Testaments, in essence attempting to match up those of the latter with supposed precursors in the former. Many of the etchings are quite striking. David, here, carrying off the head and armor of Goliath is shown also in the background in his prior battles with a bear and a lion.