Roundel with Delilah Cutting the Hair of Samson

Art Historical Context

This exquisite stained glass roundel, created by an unknown North Netherlandish artist around1520–25, the pivotal biblical moment from the Book of Judges when Delilah betrays Samson by cutting his hair, the source of his superhuman strength. The intimate scene shows Delilah wielding scissors with focused intent as Samson slumbers, surrounded by rich details of figures and drapery that heighten the drama of betrayal and vulnerability. A hallmark of early 16th-century Netherlandish glassmaking, this 9 5/16-inch (23.7 cm) circle likely designed for a domestic window, where roundels like this brought moral tales from scripture into everyday life. The medium—colorless glass enhanced with vitreous paint for bold lines and silver stain for luminous yellows and golds—demonstrates masterful firing techniques that ensured vibrant, enduring colors. Silver stain, a Renaissance innovation, allowed artists to achieve warm tones on the reverse side, making the glass glow brilliantly when backlit. Now part of The Cloisters Collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this roundel reflects the North Netherlandish tradition of blending religious narrative with refined craftsmanship, offering visitors a window into the spiritual and artistic world of Renaissance households.