The Judgement of Solomon
Artist
Willem Swanenburgh
(Dutch, 1580–1612)
Artistafter
Joachim Antonisz Wtewael
(Dutch, 1566–1638)
Date1605
Mediumengraving on cream laid paper
Dimensions29.7 x 39.4 cm (plate), 30 x 40 cm (sheet)
ClassificationsPrints
Credit LinePurchase from Jeffrey Wortman
Object number1987.75
Descriptionplate II from the Thrones of Justice seriesLabel TextThe last originative Mannerist artist in the Netherlands, Wtewael was the son of an Utrecht glass engraver. He began painting in Italy around 1590. Back at home he came under the influence of Abraham Bloemaert, forging an even more exaggerated personal style with elegant, distorted poses painted in acidic colors. This is one from a series of prints of wise judgments represented in the Bible. Two women came before King Solomon, both claiming to be the mother of a child. He decided that the only fair thing was to split the baby, and called for a sword. The true mother was revealed when she gave up her claim to save the child.ProvenancePurchase from Jeffrey Wortman, New York
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