Judith with the Head of Holofernes c. 1497 - 1500

Sandro Botticelli's "Judith with the Head of Holofernes" (c. 1497-1500) depicts the biblical story of Judith, a courageous widow who, after the Assyrian general Holofernes laid siege to her city, beheaded him in his sleep and delivered his head to her people. The artwork showcases Botticelli's distinctive style, with delicate lines and elongated figures, creating a sense of both drama and grace. The vibrant red drapery and the stark contrast between Judith's delicate features and the blood-stained sword contribute to the visual power of the scene, portraying a woman who bravely fought for her people's freedom.