Bernardo Cavallino 1616 – 1656

Saul invokes the Ghost of Samuel

oil on copper (62 × 87 cm) — c. 1652 Museum J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles

This work is linked to 1 Samuel 28:14

Tags: Saul

Rate this work of art:

  [11 votes]

On the eve of an important battle against the Philistines, Saul, the first king of Israel, summons a witch to his tent. He needs advise like he used to receive from Samuel, who had passed away. Interesting detail is that Saul previously had all witches and magicians expelled from his country.

The witch of Endor makes the spirit of Samuel appear. Saul kneels before him. The ghost is angry for Saul disturbing his peace. He predicts a terrible defeat. The next day Israel loses the battle, and Saul and his sons die.

Show page metadata