Judith beheading Holofernes

This engraving, also known as ‘The Great Judith’, is based on a now-lost painting by Rubens. It shows the dramatic moment when Judith beheads the drunken Assyrian general Holofernes with his own sword. In doing so, she prevents a great misfortune from befalling her people, the Israelites. Judith became a symbol of courage and determination. This print is the first engraving after a model by Rubens to be produced and distributed.