Judith beheading Holofernes

Artist Valentin de Boulogne French, 1590 - 1632

Date1624

Period17th century

Classification(s)

Art / Paintings

Object TypePainting

Registration NumberFAS/P/186

DescriptionThis highly dramatic depiction of a well known bible story is considered among the best of Valentin's oeuvre. Valentin de Boulogne was a French artist who, after his arrival in Rome in the early 17th century, fell heavily under the influence of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. Not only did he adopt Caravaggio’s tenebrist chiaroscuro and tangible realism but also took up the idea of representing the social underdogs that the famous Italian master loved to feature in his own paintings. This work can be compared to Caravaggio's painting of the same subject at the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica in Rome, with notable differences in composition. Whereas Caravaggio's version is theatrical but gruesome and direct, Valentin presents one that is psychologically subtle and refined. The figures emerge gradually out of pitch darkness, with their features highlighted through the sharp source of light coming from the left. Valentin emphasises the intense emotions in the expressive faces of his protagonists: Holofernes’ surprise, shock, fear and helplessness at the hands of Judith, determined to complete her act, and the attendant old maid who looks on with bold callousness.Material

Oil on canvas

Technique

Painting

DimensionsFramed: 140 x 178.5 cmProvenanceAcquired from an Italian collection in 1926-27, according to Art. 5 of the Antiquities Act, 1925.Published ReferencesMuseum Annual Report 1926-27

Alternate ID Numbers