Six Female and Eight Male Figures.
This sacred tableau contains fourteen figures, and is arranged in the
following manner. Saul is seen seated on the throne at the background
of the picture. On each side of the throne are seated Saul's friends
and servants. David is sitting in the foreground, playing on the harp.
Saul's costume consists of a scarlet or purple velvet coat and
breeches, white hose crossed with red bands, low shoes, a crown of
velvet and gold, ornamented with precious stones, on the head, and a
large cloak of velvet and ermine thrown over the shoulders. A long
white beard should be fastened to the face, and a wig worn on the
head. The gentlemen should be attired in long, loose coats, made of
bright-colored cambric, trimmed with the same material, of other
colors. The head should be covered with a red and black turban. White
hose, crossed with black and red bands, breeches of showy-colored
cloth, shoes covered with red flannel, and crossed with black binding,
the face disguised with a long white beard, which can be made of flax.
The ladies can be costumed in satin or silk dresses, the hair hanging
in curls, and the person decorated with a profusion of jewelry. The
person who takes the part of David should be of fair complexion,
without a beard, should have long hair, and be costumed in a light,
loose blue coat, reaching five inches below the knee, and gathered
around the waist with a crimson belt. He should also wear blue
breeches, blue hose crossed with red bands, and sandals on the feet; a
turban, made of velvet, and decorated with gold, should adorn the
head. The throne platform is to be two feet high and four feet square;
on this is placed a large chair, with a canopy over the top, all of
which must be trimmed with crimson cloth, and decorated with gold
paper. On each side of the throne, place seats to accommodate twelve
persons; those in front can be seated, while others, in the
background, should be standing; they must assume various positions; a
few may be engaged in conversation, while others are looking at David.
Saul is seated on the throne, with the right hand resting on the arm
of the chair, his body slightly bent forward, and eyes fixed on
David. His countenance expresses pleasure. David is seated on a low
ottoman in the foreground of the picture. The harp rests on the floor.
Position so that a side view is had of the body. His head is thrown
back; eyes cast upward; face expresses pleasure. The light for this
picture should come from the front and the left side of the stage, and
must be quite brilliant. The harp can be made of wood, covered with
gold paper, and strung with yellow cord. The music should be of a
sacred and inspiring style.