David and fool from BL Eg 2652, f. 82v

Detail of historiated initial 'D'(ixit) of king David and a fool, at the beginning of Psalm 52. Image taken from f. 82v of Psalter (the 'Suneson Psalter'), for Danish use, with calendar, prayers and litany. Written in Latin.

The depiction of David and a fool is a common theme in medieval art and literature, particularly in illuminated manuscripts and stained glass windows. In these scenes, King David is typically shown seated on a throne or playing a musical instrument, such as a harp, while a fool or jester stands nearby, often making a silly or comical gesture. The fool in these scenes is often depicted as a clown or a buffoon, dressed in brightly colored clothing and with a fool's cap or bells attached to his hat.

The inclusion of a fool in scenes depicting King David can be interpreted in several ways. In some cases, the fool serves as a symbol of foolishness or worldly wisdom, contrasting with the wisdom and goodness of King David. In other cases, the fool may represent the common people or the lower classes, highlighting the king's authority and power. The fool may also be used to add a touch of humor to the scene, or to serve as a reminder of the transience of worldly affairs.

Overall, the depiction of David and a fool reflects the medieval fascination with the contrasting themes of wisdom and foolishness, power and authority, and the fleeting nature of worldly things.

David was a skilled musician and poet, and he played the harp to soothe King Saul when he was tormented by evil spirits. David's musical abilities and his role as a psalmist also led him to be associated with the worship of God and with the expression of devotion and praise. The image of David playing the harp remains a symbol of the connection between music, worship, and devotion in Western tradition.

The Egerton Manuscript Collection is named after its founder, Sir Thomas Egerton (1540-1617), 1st Viscount Brackley, was a lawyer, statesman, and patron of the arts during the reigns of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I of England. He served as Lord Keeper of the Great Seal and later as Lord Chancellor of England, holding high positions in the legal and political realms.

Sir Thomas Egerton acquired a substantial number of historical and literary manuscripts. In 1617, shortly before his death, Sir Thomas Egerton bequeathed his collection of manuscripts to the British Museum, which was the precursor to the British Library.