Yes, yes I know. Liking Gustav Klimt's work means that I am one of the masses, but his Judith is exquisite. A bit of background history: Judith was a Jewish widow, who (according to the Old Testament) saved the city of Bethulia from siege by the Assyrians by entering the Assyrian camp to gain access to their leader, Holofernes. Holofernes, attempting to seduce Judith, invited her to a sumptuous feast. Judith, taking advantage of Holofernes's drunkenness, decapitated him and returned to Bethulia with Holofernes's head on a stick.
Klimt however, decided to portray Judith as a Viennese femme fatale (of course). Her expression of cruel triumph (or lazy-eyed pleasure), has led to her being confused with Salome, who ordered the beheading of John the Baptist to satisfy the vengeful spirit of her mother.
And that's Judith (the deadly temptress, hah!).
Also, I think this painting is great for some wedding inspiration.
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1 comment:
Gorgeous. I am part of the Klimt-loving masses as well. How did he make things look light and dark at the same time?!
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