Judith, Benjamin-Constant (Jean-Joseph-Benjamin Constant) (c. 1886)
Benjamin-Constant’s Judith transforms the legendary heroine into a vision of avenging beauty. Draped in radiant red and gold, Judith stands resolute, sword in hand—a striking symbol of courage and justice. Her story comes from the Book of Judith, a biblical tale in which she saves her besieged city by seducing and beheading the Assyrian general Holofernes. Long celebrated as a figure of female strength and moral conviction, Judith has appeared in countless works of art from the Renaissance onward—each retelling reflecting the values of its time.
The painting’s glinting palette echoes the influence of Delacroix, whom Benjamin-Constant deeply admired. Inspired by his travels to Spain and Morocco, the artist infuses this biblical scene with an air of exotic drama, evident in both color and costume. Judith’s proud stance and unwavering gaze capture the enduring power of her story—a woman unafraid to change the fate of her people, immortalized with theatrical flair.
Cotton and polyester canvas on Radiata pine wood frame sourced from renewable forests. Includes back mounting.
