Guercino s Sampson Captured by the Philistines
Guercinos Sampson Captured by the Philistines, painted in 1619, is a brilliant work in its own ways. ... By the time Guercino, whose actual name was Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, did this work, the Catholic Church was secure again. This strong sense of power can be seen clearly in Sampson Captured by the Philistines. Guercino successfully wrapped up the spirit of Italian Baroque art in his rendition of this story from the Bible. The painting, which is of enormous size, depicts the moment when Sampson has been tricked by Delilah and is being overtaken by the Philistines. ... Guercino paints his figures in a very naturalistic way instead of ideal. Although Sampson’s back is very muscular, it is not as toned or powerful as a god-like figure’s body would ideally be. ... The struggle takes up almost the entire painting, truly calling all of the viewer’s attention to it. ... The focal point of the painting, Sampson’s body, makes the boldest diagonal line. ... His far-reaching arm grabs a Philistines face and brings in other diagonal lines made by the Philistines bodies.