Judith and Her Maidservant with the Head of Holofernes was painted by which artist?

Judith and Her Maidservant with the Head of Holofernes was painted by which artist?

• A. Artemisia Gentileschi
• B. Caravaggio
• C. Sofonisba Anguissola
• D. Barbara Longhi

Answer: (A)

This question tests your familiarity with Baroque artists who depict dramatic biblical scenes, especially those featuring strong female protagonists. Artemisia Gentileschi is renowned for powerful, emotionally charged paintings of Judith and her maidservant, often shown in the moment of beheading Holofernes with intense light, realistic anatomy, and a sense of urgent action. Her treatment emphasizes female agency and tactile realism, setting these works apart from other artists who approached the subject in different ways. Sofonisba Anguissola and Barbara Longhi are known for different genres and styles, while Caravaggio did likewise explore similar subjects but with a different composition and emphasis. The distinctive presence of the female duo and the severed head in Gentileschi’s handling makes her the best attribution for this painting.

This question tests your familiarity with Baroque artists who depict dramatic biblical scenes, especially those featuring strong female protagonists. Artemisia Gentileschi is renowned for powerful, emotionally charged paintings of Judith and her maidservant, often shown in the moment of beheading Holofernes with intense light, realistic anatomy, and a sense of urgent action. Her treatment emphasizes female agency and tactile realism, setting these works apart from other artists who approached the subject in different ways. Sofonisba Anguissola and Barbara Longhi are known for different genres and styles, while Caravaggio did likewise explore similar subjects but with a different composition and emphasis. The distinctive presence of the female duo and the severed head in Gentileschi’s handling makes her the best attribution for this painting.