ITALIAN SCHOOL, 17TH CENTURY | DAVID WITH THE HEAD OF GOLIATH

While the attribution of this painting has eluded scholars, its quality and distinctive elements suggest an accomplished Italian hand. Great attention has been paid to the figure of David, whose muscular body is dramatically lit from above. His delicately posed left hand holds the ropes of his slingshot, while his right hand presses down firmly on the large head of his victim. Goliath's head is similarly rendered with great detail, from the scruff of his thick beard, to his large nose and lips, and to his furrowed brow.