Skip to main content

Artemisia Gentileschi: The woman behind the paintings - Allison Leigh

510,590 Views

3,932 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

The biblical story of the heroine Judith slaying the brutal Holofernes is featured in countless works of art, including the Sistine Chapel. But the most iconic depiction was painted by an artist who tackled this ambitious scene when she was just 19 years old. Her name was Artemisia Gentileschi. So who was Artemisia, and what sets her depiction apart from the rest? Allison Leigh investigates.

Looking closely at Artemisia Gentileschi’s depictions of Judith reveals that they contain many meaningful details. Which elements are the most significant and why did she include them in her works?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Allison Leigh
  • Director Luísa Holanda, Hype CG
  • Narrator Susan Zimmerman
  • Storyboard Artist Luísa Holanda
  • Animator Murilo Jardim
  • Art Director Luísa Holanda
  • Composer Gabriel Maia
  • Sound Designer Gabriel Maia
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Producer Anna Bechtol
  • Associate Producer Abdallah Ewis
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Editorial Producer Elizabeth Cox

More from The World's People and Places