"Death of Samson" 18th Century Oil Painting on Canvas Palace Bible Judge Ruins

Description

Painting depicts Samsonpurposefullycollapsing the Temple foundation on his enemies. Trapped below, which is where he meets his end. His spirit can be seen along the right leaving his body. Painting is of Italian Origin, circa 18th Century. Unsigned.



Samson was the last of the judges of the ancient israelites from the book of Judges. Hebrew Scripture (Tanak) chapters 13-16. Samson was one of the last leaders to judge Israel before the onset of monarchy. Often compared to Hercules.



Samson was a Nazarite.





Abstain from wine, wine vinegar, grapes, raisins, intoxicating liquors,[2]vinegar made from such substances,[3]and eating or drinking any substance that contains any trace of grapes.[4]

Refrain from cutting the hair on one's head; but to allow the locks of the head's hair to grow.[5]

Not to becomeritually impureby contact with corpses or graves, even those of family members



Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazirite





He was given exuberant strength to aid him against enemies which allowed him have glorious feats. Examples; Slaying a Lion & destroying a temple of the Philistines with his bare hands. However, if his long hair were to be cut it was said that he would lose his strength.



Samson died in the Temple of Dragon when he grasped two pillars and caused them to snap upon himself. The aftermath is depicted in the painting above.

Condition

Good Condition

Dimensions

51" x 41.5" x 1.25"
Sans Frame - 47.25" x 37.25"
(L x W x H)