Lot 419
Artist Unknown. "Judith Slaying Holofernes". From the Book of Judith, a parable of a valorous and beautiful widow, Judith, who is at odds with her fellow Jews for not trusting in God to deliver them from their foreign conquerors. Along with her loyal maidservant, she enters the camp of the enemy Assyrian general, Holofernes who was sent by Nebuchadnezza to occupy the countries along the seacoast of The Western World, destroy all their gods and worship Nebuchadnezza alone. Judith earns Holofernes' favor promising him information on the Israelites. After gaining his trust, one night she is allowed access to his elaborate tent and finding him drunk, she decapitates him. The Assyrians having lost their commander and leader and saving Israel. Great story but no evidence as an accurate historical telling.
Nevertheless this story is the subject of countless artistic interpretations by artists spanning centuries including many great masters including Gentileschi, Caravaggio (spectacularly Baroque) Baglione, even an Art Nouveau interpretation by Gustav Klimt. Very much in the Neoclassical period/style comes this powerful unsigned oil on canvas of some age. For over 50 years this painting hung at a estate in Tennessee, and came to us dulled from light grime and cigar smoke. Professionally cleaned and examined for issues by Centurian Fine Art Restoration here in Los Angeles, this striking work now displays beautifully, the subtleties in color and tone fully apparent. Cleaning also revealed a couple of very small areas of restoration expertly executed many decades past. Canvas measures 38½ x 29" and is framed to 46 x 36" in gilt wood. A dramatic work and a fine centerpiece for a distinct home, library or gallery. Outside shipping required. Estimated Value $2,000 - UP
From The Ora Eads Collection.
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| Realized $840 |
