jan 1, 1880 - Judith and Holofernes | Pedro Américo

Description:

Pedro Américo de Figueiredo e Melo (1843-1905) was a Brazilian novelist, poet, scientist, art theorist, essayist, philosopher, politician and professor, but is best remembered as one of the most important academic painters in Brazil, leaving works of national impact. His style in painting, in line with the great trends of his time, fused neoclassical, romantic and realistic elements.
Judith and Holofernes was made in 1880. In this painting, she is not wearing a typical dress like in the first 2 paintings, but a strange two-piece garment as well as a head piece, bracelets and sandals. Holofernes’ sword is lying at her feet, as well as his head at the other side. She is looking upwards with her hands outstretched, thanking God for being able to free her homeland from Holofernes. Unlike most of Judith-themed art, Judith’s maid isn’t in the frame, and Holofernes’s head is almost unnoticeable, blending in with the carpet.

Added to timeline:

Date:

Images: