
Hans Sebald Beham German (1500-1550)
Judith with the Head of HolofernesMedium: Engraving
Signature: Initials in the plate
Size: 4-1/2 x 2-7/8 inches
Description: This popular tale from the Old Testament starts with Holofernes, an Assyrian general who about to destroy Judith's home, the city of Bethulia. Judith, a beautiful widow, takes advantage of Holofernes’ lust for her and gains access to his tent. She gets him drunk and when he passes out, grabs his sword and decapitates him. She flees with her maidservant with Holofernes’ head in a basket. Beham’s interpretation is particularly unique in that he depicts her nude, striding forward with the sword in hand. This posture places her firmly in the category of “heroic nude,” usually an arena reserved for males.
Stock Number: 32377c
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