Judith with the Head of Holfernes
1887.119
Name/Title
Judith with the Head of HolfernesEntry/Object ID
1887.119Description
Judith was a great Israelite heroine who saved her people by her bravery. Her tale is told in the book of Judith, and has been popular with artists since the Renaissance. It was particularly popular in the Baroque period as evidenced by Caravaggio's famous work, Artemisia Gentileschi's two versions, works by Rembrandt and Ruebens, and many others. She is usually depicted holding the head of Holofernes, as we see in this drawing, or in the middle of the act of severing of his head. In the biblical account, the Israelites of Bethulia are surrounded by Assyrians led by General Holofernes. There is no hope for the city to survive the expected morning battle. Judith, a beautiful widow, goes to the Assyrian camp where she feigns to switch her allegiance and seduces Holofernes (although the account takes pains to make known that no defilement took place). After eating and drinking too much in celebration, Holofernes passes out. Judith takes his sword and severs his head, placing it in a basket. She sneaks out of the Assyrian camp with the head and returns to the Israelites. The next morning she saves her people by holding the head of Holofernes high above the Assyrian army causing them to scatter and retreat in terror and confusion.Artwork Details
Medium
Paper, SanguineCollection
Archabbey-European Prints and DrawingsCataloged By
ChristopherAcquisition
Accession
1887.119Acquisition Method
Found in CollectionMade/Created
Artist
UnknownDate made
1600 - 1700Notes
Date: 17th Century Artist's School: German Technique: DrawingEthnography
Culture/Tribe
Northern European