Judith and Holofernes (1620 - 1621) by Artemisia GentileschiUffizi Gallery
Open up an art history book and you'll probably find too few women artists, but you may see Artemisia Gentileschi's painting Judith Slaying Holofernes. This grisly image tells the biblical story of the assassination of the Assyrian general Holofernes by the heroine, Judith.
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Judith Slaying Holofernes is in the collection of the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. The gallery was founded in the 16th century, and opened to the public in 1765. Every year the unparalleled artworks attract millions of visitors.
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Many of the oldest works in the collection come from the powerful Medici family, who ruled Florence during the Renaissance. As the family died out, their artworks were gifted to the city of Florence under the famous Patto di famiglia contract.
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I hear the ringing of a blade being sharpened. We can't be too far, but we better be careful. Point and click to explore the gallery, and watch out for Judith!
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Here it is, Judith Slaying Holofernes. Let's take a closer look.
Judith and Holofernes (1620 - 1621) by Artemisia GentileschiUffizi Gallery
According to the story, Judith saved the Israelite city of Bethulia from the army of the dreaded Holofernes by seducing him, before beheading him as he slept a deep, drunken sleep.
Artemisia Gentileschi was a painter of the Italian Baroque period. In an era when women had few opportunities to pursue artistic training or work as professional artists, Gentileschi was the first woman to become a member of the Florentine Accademia di Arte del Disegno.
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Thanks for joining us on another Scavenger Hunt, there's plenty more to do. But while we're here, why not take a moment to beat the crowds and see the art.
