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David and Goliath, 629–630; Early Byzantine
Byzantine; Made in Constantinople
Silver; D. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); Diam. 19 1/2 in. (49.4 cm)
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917 (17.190.396)
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Description
This magnificent silver plate is the largest of a set of nine that were discovered in 1902 on the island of Cyprus. Six of these are at the Metropolitan, and are among the most celebrated objects in its early Byzantine collection. Each plate was made from a solid piece of silver, using a technique called repoussé, in which the image is hammered out from the reverse side. The plates were not designed for practicality. They were most likely intended for ceremonial display.
The set illustrates scenes from the life of the Hebrew king David. This plate shows the episode of David's battle with Goliath. At the top, David challenges Goliath by a stream, which is personified by a river god sitting between the two combatants. In the center, David readies his slingshot as Goliath attacks with his spear and shield. At the bottom, David beheads the fallen giant. The story of David and Goliath had particular meaning at the time the plates were created. The Byzantine emperor Heraclius had beaten the superior Persian army in 627, and it is thought that the plates were made to celebrate his victory over a mighty enemy.
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