Judith and her maidservant with the head of Holofernes 1495 - 1535

"Judith and her maidservant with the head of Holofernes" is an engraving by Girolamo Mocetto, created between 1495 and 1535. The artwork depicts the biblical story of Judith, a Jewish widow who, through cunning and bravery, beheads the Assyrian general Holofernes to save her people. The engraving, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is characterized by its detailed depiction of the figures and their expressions. It showcases the meticulous use of line and shading, creating a powerful image of the drama and significance of the moment. The engraving's composition is dynamic, emphasizing the weight of Holofernes' head and the contrasting emotions of Judith and her maidservant. This work demonstrates Mocetto's skillful execution of the engraving technique, highlighting the power of this visual narrative.