400 years ago, the Baroque painter Artemisia Gentileschi put everything at risk. She wrote history for being among the first women to express experiences with sexual violence through art.
The story might be more significant than ever. In today’s times more and more women reach out and share their traumatic experiences of assault and powerlessness with the public. Her work Lucretia serves as an example of her characterization of women with strong and determined personalities. So let’s take the opportunity to look back at a leading figure, who was fighting for herself and other women.
For a female artist the portrayal of nude woman was unusual – especially if presented in a strong and superior way. Born in Rome, Artemisia was the only daughter of the painter Orazio Gentileschi. He strongly supported her and in whose atelier she was trained as an artist. The painting Susanna and the elders show the early artistic abilities of the then 17-year-old. Like most Baroque works, it shows a biblical narrative. But more importantly it also addresses the sexism of Roman society.
Two old men stare at a young girl who turns away in disgust. The parallels to Artemisia, who had to sit model for her fathers’ pupils, are undeniable. Later the artist was raped by her then-teacher. It led to a trial in which not the rapist, but Artemisia was tortured. During this time her most famous work emerges, which can be seen in the KHM. Judith beheads Holofernes, which is not only a proof of trauma and a desire for revenge but also a virtuoso realization of color, light and emotional expression. Artemisia moved to Florence after the trial where she started a career of great success and where she enjoyed the favor of the Medici family and was the first female artist to be admitted to the Accademia del Disgeno.
Artemisia Gentileschi’s extraordinary life as an accomplished female painter in the 17th century is well documented. She is an intriguing subject of films and books to this day. (JE)
Photo Credit: Dorotheum
Update: They are selling it for EUR 1.9 million!
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