Judith met het hoofd van Holofernes 1524 - 1540

Parmigianino created this print, Judith with the Head of Holofernes. See how Judith triumphantly brandishes the sword, a symbol of her courage and defiance. This recalls the ancient motif of the conquering hero, sword aloft, a gesture that echoes through centuries of art, from classical depictions of victorious generals to Renaissance portrayals of biblical champions. Now, consider the sword itself. A symbol of power, yes, but also of sacrifice. Think of the Greek tragedies, where the sword represents both the glory and the inevitable downfall of heroes. This duality reminds us that every act of courage carries its weight, a psychological burden that resonates in our collective memory. Observe how Parmigianino captures Judith's intense gaze, a powerful force that engages us on a deep, subconscious level. The sword, the gaze, the triumph – these elements are not static but are part of an emotional and cultural current, resurfacing and evolving across time.