Solomon gives verdict: Solomon gives verdict; he commands a soldier to divide the living child in two; the true mother objects to Solomon's verdict (1 Kings 3:25-27)

Adriaen van der Werff, a prominent Dutch painter of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, created this dramatic scene, "Solomon gives verdict," in 1697. Van der Werff was highly regarded in his time, even serving as court painter to Johann Wilhelm, Elector Palatine, and receiving commissions from the powerful Medici family. This painting exemplifies his refined style, which often merged classical influences with meticulous detail, a characteristic that set him apart from the earlier Dutch naturalistic tradition. Here, he tackles a well-known biblical narrative (1 Kings 3:25-27), allowing him to explore complex human emotions and moral dilemmas through the figures. While his reputation waned in the 19th century, his work was celebrated for its precision and polished finish during his lifetime, attracting esteemed collectors like Frederick the Great and Louis XVI. This particular work, depicting King Solomon's famous judgment, showcases Van der Werff's skill in composing elaborate, multi-figure scenes that convey a powerful story.