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Absalom Slain by Joab

Augustin Hirschvogel

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing showing a group of armored horsemen and a figure entangled in a tree. The central figure appears caught in the branches of a tree by their head or hair. Nearby, mounted soldiers with long spears are riding energetically towards the figure. The soldiers wear helmets with crests and armor typical of classical or medieval periods. The background shows rolling hills and sparse foliage. The image features fine line work, intricate details, and careful shading, resembling an etching or engraving. Below the scene, there is a block of text in an old script referencing 2 Samuel 18:8 from the Bible.

Artwork Details

Date
1548
Medium
etching
Dimensions
3396 × 3432 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original