Jael Killing Sisera c. 1460

This miniature illustration from an anonymous artist, dating back to around 1460, depicts the biblical story of Jael killing Sisera. Jael, a woman of the Kenites, is shown driving a tent peg through the head of Sisera, a Canaanite general. The detail of the hammer being held by Jael suggests the strength of her actions, while the shield and armor of Sisera denote his former power and vulnerability in this moment. The illustration was likely part of a larger manuscript, possibly a Bible, providing a visual interpretation of this biblical story.