Large oil on canvas, Samson and Delilah, in the Style of William Bouguereau, 19th Century

This myth, a blend of war, love, and betrayal, was one of the great themes of the 19th century, in both opera and painting. Saint-Saëns excelled in the former, while Romantic painters embraced the latter. Here, the brushwork is sufficiently reminiscent of William Bouguereau’s (1825-1905) work to warrant mention. Perhaps it is the work of one of his students or followers. The Egyptian-inspired composition recalls that of José Echenagusia Errazquin (1844-1912) on the same subject. Samson drifts off to sleep in Delilah’s arms, unaware that she will betray him.

The mythical tale from the Hebrew Bible pits Samson against the Philistines. Several times, the hero defeats them, alone against a thousand. So, when Samson falls in love with Delilah, secretly in the service of the Philistines, the hero, unsuspecting, confides his secret to her: his Herculean strength lies in his hair. While he sleeps, Delilah cuts off Samson’s hair. Weakened, he is now held captive by the Philistines. But as his hair grows back, he takes one last revenge and brings down the columns to which he is chained. The building collapses, and he perishes with his enemies. This framed painting is in very good condition.