Artwork
Tyrants of the Old Testament: Holofernes
Tyrants of the Old Testament: Holofernes is a print by Georg Pencz. It dates from 1535 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1923.415
- Credit line
- Charles W. Harkness Endowment Fund
About this work
Overview
Tyrants of the Old Testament: Holofernes is a print created by German artist Georg Pencz around 1535, depicting the biblical figure Holofernes in a dramatic, detailed drawing.
Subject & Meaning
The work portrays Holofernes, an Old Testament tyrant, symbolizing conquest and defeat through his leafy crown, sword, and the severed head he holds, reflecting Pencz’s interest in religious and historical themes.
Technique & Style
Executed in black-and-white, the drawing showcases strong chiaroscuro, emphasizing contrasts of light and shadow to create deep textures and a fierce, angry expression, blending Dürer’s influence with Venetian artistic sensibilities.
History & Provenance
Created during Pencz’s active period after training under Albrecht Dürer in Nuremberg and being influenced by Venetian art during his Italian travels, where he also worked with printmaker Marcantonio Raimondi.
Context
Reflects the Renaissance fascination with biblical narratives and the artistic innovations of the time, including the use of chiaroscuro to evoke emotion and depth.
Legacy
Contributes to the broader Renaissance printmaking tradition, exemplifying how artists of the period interpreted historical and religious figures through innovative visual techniques.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Georg Pencz (c. 1500 – 11 October 1550) was a German engraver, painter and printmaker. Pencz was probably born in Westheim near Bad Windsheim/Franconia. He travelled to Nuremberg in 1523 and joined Albrecht Dürer’s…
