David mit dem Haupt des Goliath

Mantegna's David with the Head of Goliath of around 1492 depicts the biblical shepherd-king holding the severed head of the Philistine giant, using an unusual circular tondo format and a distinctive surface — likely tempera on linen — that gives the work an unusual material quality. Mantegna's treatment of the David theme combines his characteristic anatomical precision with the pensive psychological observation he brought to all his figurative subjects, the young David's expression suggesting contemplation of the violence he has committed rather than triumphant celebration.

David holds Goliath's severed head with an almost clinical detachment, the trophy rendered with the anatomical exactitude Mantegna applied to all his subjects. The tight, controlled brushwork and mineral-hard surfaces give the image a sculptural permanence.