Jael and Sisera

On this day in 1593, Artemisia Gentileschi, one of the best Italian Baroque painters, was born. At a time when women had limited access to artistic education or professional opportunities, Gentileschi broke barriers as the first woman admitted to the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno in Florence, and she attracted an international clientele. Many of her paintings depict women drawn from mythology, allegory, and the Bible—portraying them as victims, warriors, and figures of resilience and tragedy. One such painting we present today!

The subject of today's work is drawn from the Book of Judges in the Bible. It illustrates the dramatic moment when Jael, a Kenite woman, prepares to kill Sisera, a Canaanite general whom the Israelites have defeated. After his loss, Sisera escapes to a nearby encampment, where Jael offers him shelter, promising to provide food and concealment. Once he falls asleep, she drives a tent peg through his temple—an act celebrated in the text for its boldness and decisive courage.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Jael’s story was often linked to that of Judith, the personification of the virtue of Humility, and the Virgin Mary, among other figures. Gentileschi loved the subjects of strong female figures from literature and scripture. Her personal history adds a layer of resonance to these themes: her mentor Agostino Tassi was later convicted of raping her. Interestingly, Sisera bears a visual resemblance to Tassi, drawing further psychological depth to the portrayal.

P.S. In recent years, Gentileschi’s art has emerged from obscurity and is gaining deserved recognition. How well do you know her oeuvre? Find out by taking this Artemisia Gentileschi QUIZ! 

P.P.S. We feature other works by Artemisia in our Women Artists 50 Postcards Set; you can see them in the DailyArt Shop.  :)