Judith and Holofernes

About the Art

This work tells the story from the Hebrew Bible of the deliverance of the town of Bethulia and Judith’s killing of the Assyrian general Holofernes. Judith and her servant, who carries a basket, can be seen three times: entering the city gates; beheading Holofernes with a large sword; then carrying away the head in the servant's basket. Holofernes was attracted to Judith, a widow, and allowed her into his tent. He proceeded to get drunk and, once he passed out, Judith killed him. The ensuing battle takes place on the panel’s left side. The story was popular in European art from the fifteenth- through eighteenth centuries.

FEATURED IMAGE
The Master of Marradi (Italian, Florentine, active 15th century), Judith and Holofernes, 15th century, tempera on wood, 15 3/4 x 58 1/2 inches (40 x 148.6 cm). Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Ralf Kircher, 1964.10