Is that a flicker of mischief I see in Samson’s eyes? We are standing before the sculpture “Samson envoyant des renards dans les champs des Philistins”. It is located in Brussels. This artwork depicts a rather creative act of revenge.
The “Samson envoyant des renards dans les champs des Philistins” statue shows a biblical episode. Samson avenges himself against the Philistines. He does so by unleashing 300 foxes into their wheat fields. The foxes have torches attached to their tails. It is quite the spectacle.
Jean-Baptiste Van Heffen created the original plaster model in 1866. The white marble sculpture was commissioned by the State in 1880. It was intended for the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. The statue found its current home here in 1897. Gédéon Bordiau designed its blue stone base.
The story originates from the Book of Judges. Samson’s actions were a response to a personal slight. He had been wronged. His solution? A fiery fox-fueled rampage through the Philistines’ crops.
Look closely. You will notice something is missing from “Samson envoyant des renards dans les champs des Philistins”. The statue has lost its right hand. This hand once held a lit torch. This torch was the instrument of Samson’s vengeance.
This statue like others in the park was classified on November 18, 1976.
The tale of “Samson envoyant des renards dans les champs des Philistins” speaks of revenge. It also highlights the consequences of anger. Consider Samson’s story and this striking sculpture. Remember that actions often have unintended outcomes. Our tour continues.