Judith Slaying Holofernes

Despite a heavy importance being placed on the overall mood and display of a painting, many of the most important factors are tied to minute details. On Gentileschi’s most recent rendition of Judith Slaying Holofernes, Judith is shown having an added accessory – a bracelet. Encrusted in the bracelet are carved images, most notably is a figure seemingly holding a long bow and arrow. Few who have analyzed this detail attribute the figure as Artemis due to her association with archery as well as protecting young maidens and virtue. The bracelet figure right below also portrays a female figure seemingly admiring herself, a possible nod to Aphrodite. If such a hypothesis is true, then Artemisia’s decision to incorporate Greek mythology figures within
a biblical story portrays itself as an interesting incorporation. The Greek mythological figures were most likely chosen due to ability to easily recognize the figures and acknowledge its symbolism, but placing those figures in the same chronological time as the creation of the bible also can be an acknowledgement of the old religion.