Judith Slaying Holofernes

Out of the two paintings I really enjoyed Artemisia Gentileschi's version of Judith Slaying Holofernes. Before choosing which paining I liked more, I had no idea that a woman painted this, which made me love the painting even more. I love the use of light and dark in this and although it is very similar to Carravagio's, her version creates such a different power and feeling than his. The two women show both anger and no regret at their actions. Holofernes is the most illuminated while the two women seem to disappear in the painting. Although it is a gruesome painting, the way Artemisia used light and dark to portray such power and emotion is truly beautiful.