The artwork titled “Judith Beheading Holofernes” by Caravaggio, created circa 1598-1599, is an oil painting on canvas that epitomizes the Baroque and Tenebrism art movements. With dimensions of 195 x 145 cm, this religious painting is housed in the National Gallery of Ancient Art (GNAA) in Rome, Italy.
The artwork vividly depicts a dramatic and intense biblical scene, showcasing Judith in the act of beheading Holofernes. Judith, a young woman, grips the hair of a muscular and anguished Holofernes, who is laid helplessly upon a bed. Her resolute expression contrasts with the stark terror on Holofernes’ face as blood spurts from his neck. An elderly woman, often identified as Judith’s maid, observes the grim task, her face etched with solemnity. Caravaggio employs his mastery of chiaroscuro, using dramatic contrasts of light and dark to heighten the emotional impact and focus the viewer’s attention on the central figures. The rich folds of the red drapery in the background and the meticulous rendering of textures and details further accentuate the raw intensity and realism characteristic of Caravaggio’s style.
