In Eglon van der Neer’s painting, a lavishly dressed young woman commands attention with her opulent attire. The sumptuous silk and brocade dress, adorned with pearls, contrasts against the dark background. Her clothing’s intricate details captivate viewers. Upon closer inspection, the painting reveals a deeper narrative. The young woman holds a sword, implying a connection to a darker story. Another figure lowers a severed head into a bag, hinting at a gruesome scene. Van der Neer portrays the young woman as Judith, a celebrated figure from the Old Testament. Judith’s bravery and cunning in beheading Holofernes, the Assyrian general, inspire the sitter’s choice to embody this biblical heroine.
Aligning herself with Judith, the young woman conveys strength, courage, and intelligence. Yet, Van der Neer’s focus lies more on capturing the luxurious qualities of the dress than emphasizing the narrative elements. The artist’s attention to detail, depicting the textures and colors of the clothing, reflects a fascination with material aspects. The painting juxtaposes the elegance of the woman’s attire with a narrative of power, violence, and triumph over an enemy. Ultimately, it testifies to Van der Neer’s artistry and the enduring allure of the Judith story as an enduring source of inspiration and fascination.
