Woman Slain with Sword 1740 - 1802

"Woman Slain with Sword" is an etching by Italian artist Giuseppe Canale, created between 1740 and 1802. The artwork, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, depicts a woman lying lifeless, her body contorted in a pose suggestive of violent death. The artist's use of delicate lines and intricate hatching creates a sense of movement and drama, capturing the fleeting moment of the woman's final breath. The presence of two cherubs in the upper left corner of the image, seemingly descending from the heavens, adds a melancholic and spiritual dimension to the scene, suggesting a lament for the lost soul. This etching exemplifies Canale's mastery of the medium, showcasing his ability to evoke powerful emotions through subtle yet expressive lines.