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Samson defeats the Philistines

Jacob Jordaens1661/1662

Royal Palace Amsterdam

Royal Palace Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands

In the centre of the arch, Samson is shown slaying a thousand Philistines, armed only with the jawbone of an ass. Heavily armed soldiers lie dashed to pieces beneath his feet. Divine aid enabled him to prevail and liberate Israel from Philistine oppression. He then served 20 years as a judge of the Israelites.

Additional information:
The Old Testament Judges, of whom Samson was one, ensured peace, security and internal stability. Stadholder Maurice of Nassau was compared to Samson. Just as the Dutch Republic was delivered from the Spaniards, so Samson delivered Israel from the Philistines.

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  • Title: Samson defeats the Philistines
  • Creator Lifespan: 1593 - 1687
  • Creator Nationality: Flemish
  • Creator Gender: Male
  • Creator Death Place: Antwerp
  • Creator Birth Place: Antwerp
  • Date Created: 1661/1662
  • Physical Dimensions: w5000 x h5000 mm
  • Painter: Jacob Jordaens the elder
  • Display: Royal Palace Amsterdam
  • Type: Painting
  • Rights: © Stichting Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam. Photo: René Gerritsen.
  • Medium: Oil on canvas
Royal Palace Amsterdam

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