David with the Head of Goliath

Caravaggio completed this David with the Head of Goliath around 1600. The young David holds the giant's severed head, his sword still drawn. Unlike triumphant depictions of this subject, David's expression seems melancholy, almost regretful, as he contemplates the face of his defeated enemy.

Caravaggio painted several versions of this subject throughout his life. This early version shows his characteristic dramatic lighting and psychological complexity. The dark background eliminates context, focusing attention on the moral weight of violence even in a righteous cause.

The Prado acquired this painting from the Spanish royal collection. It predates Caravaggio's more famous version where he used his own face for Goliath.