Object number
TN.2009.695
Title
A German Court, C. 1540
Creator
Material
Size
63 x 50 cm
Description
Black and white engraving taken from a 1895 newspaper, article and supporting letter.
Picture: Entitled ‘A German Court, C. 1540’ copy of allegorical, biblical scene, with tennis game in progress.
Letter: To Sir Spencer, offering original painting to MCC, signed J J Freeman. Dated 13.12.13
Display caption
Continuous representation of the story of David and Bathsheba in a 16th century court setting. David, from a balcony, sees Bathsheba bathing and dispatches a messenger with a letter. As she approaches with her maid, David speeds the departure of her husband, Uriah, to his death in the forefront of the battle. The various pastimes include tennis (in an open court), the forerunner of all racket games, including lawn tennis. It has been played at Lord's since 1838. Seven similar paintings are recorded as well as a drawing in the Louvre. The M.C.C. version is unique in stating the subject on an inscription in Latin which reads: DAVID CUM BARSABAE ADULIERO COMMISSO, URIAM AB HOSTIBUS OCCIDENDUM IN PRAELIUM MITTIT.
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