The Killing of Holofernes Print

This work was painted in tribute to Artemesia Gentilesci, Flortintine artist who went on to be Charles II chief curator. She painted classical scenes from a female perspective. Here we see how Holofernes, oppressor of the Jews, has been seduced by Judith, prominent Jewish woman. That is why he is naked and in his bed chamber. Once his defences are down, Judith and her handmaiden then behead him in an act of violent rebellion. Feminist analysis of this painting leads us to conclude that Judith using her sexuality to a political end is justified.