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Taras Shevchenko

Encyclopedia of the life and works

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Judith with the head of Holofernes (fol. 24 v.)

Taras Shevchenko. Judith with the head…

Taras Shevchenko. Judith with the head of Holofernes. Outline of the composition. Ink pen. [1846 – 1850]. Back of sheet 24 of album 1846 – 1850 № 108

The plot is taken from the biblical story [deuterocanonical Book of Judith].. Holofernes – commander of the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II, imposed a high tribute to the city where Judith lived. Wanting to save her hometown, Judith charmed Holofernes and when he fell asleep in her arms, cut off his head.

Z. V. Lashkul

After publication: Taras Shevchenko Complete Works in 10 volumes. – Kyiv: ed. Academy of sciences of UkrSSR, 1962, vol. 8, № 77 (image), p. 36 (notes).