Judith with the head of Holofernes 1592 - 1668

"Judith with the head of Holofernes" is a pen and ink drawing by Giulio Benso, executed between 1592 and 1668. The artwork depicts the biblical story of Judith, a Jewish widow who beheaded the Assyrian general Holofernes to save her people. This drawing, now housed at the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, is a study for a larger painting, showcasing Benso's mastery of line and composition. The detailed anatomical depiction of the figures, particularly Holofernes's limp body, adds a dramatic element to the scene. This drawing is a testament to the artist's exploration of religious themes and his ability to capture the intensity of a biblical story.