David and a fool from BL Royal 2 B II, f. 58v

Detail of an historiated initial 'D'(ixit) of David and a fool, at the beginning of Psalm 52. Image taken from f. 58v of Psalter (index Old Testament, Bible). 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 BL Royal Manuscript Collection, also known as the Royal Collection, consists of over 2,000 manuscripts that were once owned by the British monarchs, including English and later British kings and queens from the late 12th to the 19th centuries. These manuscripts are notable for their historical and artistic value.

The collection was initially stored in various royal libraries and palaces, such as the Tower of London and Westminster Palace. During the English Civil War in the 17th century and the subsequent Interregnum, many royal treasures, including manuscripts, were dispersed and sold. Some manuscripts were lost, destroyed, or ended up in private hands.

In 1757, King George II donated the Old Royal Library to the British Museum (which later became the British Library), where the manuscripts were integrated into the museum's collections. This marked the formal establishment of the Royal Manuscript Collection within the British Museum.