This 18th-century painting tells part of the story of Samson and Delilah from the Old Testament of the Bible. Rigaud is using this painting to show off his knowledge of the Bible and well-regarded artists of the past. He’s also trying to demonstrate how well he could paint the male nude in an active pose: translating what he learnt from ancient sculptures and grand Renaissance mural paintings.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.