Artwork
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes is an oil painting by Elisabetta Sirani. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Walters Art Museum.
About this work
Overview
Judith with the Head of Holofernes is a painting created by Elisabetta Sirani around 1650. It is an oil painting held in the Walters Art Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the biblical figure Judith holding the severed head of Holofernes, an Assyrian general. The scene conveys a sense of determination and drama, with Judith's expression and the stark contrast between light and dark contributing to the overall intensity.
Technique & Style
The painting showcases the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth. Sirani's use of this technique adds to the dramatic atmosphere of the scene.
History & Provenance
Elisabetta Sirani was a prominent Italian Baroque painter and printmaker from Bologna, known for being one of the first women artists to achieve success in the city. The painting is now part of the Walters Art Museum collection.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Elisabetta Sirani (8 January 1638 – 28 August 1665) was an Italian Baroque painter and printmaker who died in unexplained circumstances at the age of 27.
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes
Judith and the Head of Holofernes
Judith with the Head of Holofernes