Artemisia Gentileschi wasn't just the greatest female painter of her time. She was one of the greatest painters of her time regardless of gender. I adore Caravaggio, he is brilliant, but her Judith puts his to shame. It is one of the most powerful paintings ever created even not knowing the backstory. Thank you for a great video on this.
I can't even describe the way this video made me feel. Even though no one helped her in her hour of need, she was still able to have the vision of a strong woman helping another take down the savage. Thank you for sharing her story and her work.
Honestly, it feels like as I listen and watch, my eyes are being taught how to see, which I love. All of the films have been excellent, though this one, at this time in particular spoke to my own heart. Thank you so much.
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I've been trying to figure out how to express what James has been doing for me through these videos. "My eyes are being taught how to see" is exactly how I feel. Thank you for sharing. And, thank you James for teaching so many of us.
I've always felt that Caravaggio pulled his punches in depicting Judith killing Holofernes - she looks like she's found a slug while chopping lettuce - and yet in his Crucifixion of St Peter he really shows the sheer determination and physical effort required to kill a man, as Gentileschi does here, so maybe he struggled to depict a woman doing something so unwomanly!. The position of the sword in Gentileschi's painting had completely passed me by, so thank you - I've subscribed and am off to binge the rest of your videos.
Thanks for the comment heather - I will use your slug analogy from now on! Yes Caravaggio’s Judith is very ‘dainty’ and unlikely to be able to finish the task. Although I suppose she had god on her side! It will be interesting to see what you think of my Caravaggio video. I think his taking of Christ can’t be beat. Thanks for watching 🙏
Caravaggio’s was painted a bit better from a glance, but both of their demonstrations of beheading were bad. Caravaggio’s example was far worse in part by the woman’s over extending arm would have had absolutely no leverage. Both painted it as if it was razor sharp, and both are using a the sword as if it were a saw? Both hands should’ve been on the handle coming down from over top of him then back towards her self in a lobbing motion. Why the sawing in both? Makes no sense unless she used his as a direct reference and being unfamiliar with the sword’s action she copied Caravaggio’s mistake? Or like you said the sword was being guided by god’s strength, in which case Caravaggio is highlighting this obvious impossibility by purposefully placing her at such distance that anyone such as us can’t help but notice and comment. Perhaps the message is as I believe it’s said in the Bible and I’m paraphrasing “show faith and take action and god will take it from here”. I never realized how much I adore Baroque paintings, does anyone paint in that style anymore?
@@chaddsteinberg3758 i think the sawing motion is more “intimate” in a way. swinging the sword would require distance but that wouldn’t match how personal her motives were. sawing at the neck requires judith to hold his head in her hand, forcing his gaze even while he dies, forcing him to fully acknowledge who it is doing this to him. he has lost all control, and to the hand of a woman at that. perhaps that’s how she greeted him as she walked into the room to kill him, with a gentle touch to the face to lower his guard. he is being slaughtered like an animal, he doesn’t deserve the decency of a quick death. personally i also think it mirrors other depictions of this event, where judith is holding his already severed head in triumph. it’s almost like she can’t wait to do this, preemptively pulling his head away from his body, tearing as much as she is cutting
I feel like in Caravaggio's version, she is showing a lot of disgust and intended distance but not because of fear or unability. For me the disgust is not for her action but for Holofernes. That's why she is standing so separate and bowed away, supported by the dark " bow" between her and Holofernes. She easily cuts of his head but doesn't want to come to close to him because of disgust. At least that's how I feel about it.
I love this. As an artist and victim of abuse myself (albeit of a different variety) Gentileschi’s work deeply resonates with me. I am particularly fond of her depiction of Judith. As a form of expression and as a coping mechanism, I have taken a page out of her book and i created my own version of Judith and Holofernes. My abuser plays Holofernes and I am the handmaiden. I have given the staring role of Judith to my mother, because she suffered the most from his abuse and in my opinion, has the right to the killing blow. I am merely her assistant, the stocks that hold him in place as the guillotine’s blade finally drops. my hand basket sits to the side, eagerly awaiting the fruit from this harvest. While it doesn’t come close to Gentileschi’s masterpiece, I will say it was very Cathartic to be able to channel all that rage and give my abuser a punishment fit for his crimes. 10/10 would recommend. Not as satisfying as the real thing but hey, can’t go to jail for a drawing so 🤷🏼♀️
Thanks so much for sharing that story - in so many ways, things don’t change. It sounds like a powerful piece of work, and like Gentileschi, you are working from your heart. I am a big fan of Gentileschi and her story still resonates. Thanks for watching the video and I hope you get to watch some of the others. James
I genuinely believe this is the best video essay on UA-cam. The references to cultural events, the life story of the painter, references to the trial, to the Mendeci family…. I adore all of it.
The book blood water paint is beautiful retelling of her life story and it has already been adapted to a stage play 👀 I’m just waiting for someone to pick it up for the big screens
Thank you for this video...fantastic!!!! Man, when you look at the Caravaggio and the Gentileschi side by side, you really see the difference between a well-executed work and a damn masterpiece. Caravaggio's is obviously technically great, but Judith is a little girl, timid and, most importantly, unconvincing that she is physically or psychologically capable of performing the task at hand. It's as though she's just repulsed, magically holding a heavy sword, and cutting through a man's neck that's made of soft paper. Surely Caravaggio is telling us that there is no way a woman (the more gentile and weak of the sexes) really could have done this on her own. The story's a fiction, a fantasy. Jeez. Talk about passive-aggressive. Gentileschi's Judith on the other hand is just...wow. The complete opposite. There is power, struggle and true violence in the act. And the look on Judith's face...she's not angry, really...just determined to do the job and yet...there is a bit of that look of getting revenge. It's a telling and serious work of art. Don't mess with Artemisia.
I loved this video and story so much that last year, I went to Italy on a guided tour. It was basically impossible due to our schedule for me to visit this painting in Florence, but I told my guide how excited I was about this, so she made it possible and delayed the guided tour (just a little bit, everyone else got to enjoy Florence some more because of this) so I could see this painting. Today, it's one of my most beautiful and fond memories that I will remember my whole life. Thanks to you two.
A compelling story of injustice, corruption and sweet revenge, told in scholarly detail - and with a certain relish (I'm glad you included Holofernes' screams).
AAAARGH, I want to shout her name to the heavens! I'm not an art student, so I always conflated Caravaggio's painting with hers. And not being "artsy" or Catholic, I didn't know there were so many depictions of this. Heck, I didn't know there was a "Book of Judith"! After watching this, I'm a little proud of myself that I could distinguish the "themes" between hers and his, before you pointed it out.😊 HIS=Unwilling Necessity vs HER=Culling So much more to say, but...AAAARGH!!!!!
Really loving your analyses! But I think the revenge and anger you note fully captures the rage and righteousness I get from the painting. The strength and intensity of her grip - with the righteous centring of the sword held firm against his powerless writhing, she pulls his head back and down to look up to the onlooker. It feels like she’s forcing him to confront us with what he’s done - a sort of ‘look at them and tell them what you did.’ But she takes his voice and his power away. She is focussed and in control of her actions. I find her pose strange, it’s almost like she’s pouring a large jug of water. To me, she’s forcibly pouring the truth out of him. As vicious as this painting seems, I’d imagine this trial is by no means as violent as what was done to her.
Bravo!!! It is good to see that the female professional artists of the past-others, as well as Artemesia-are being brought to the attention of the public. There were so many that have been left out-Levina Teerlinc, 1520-76 (whose salary was more than that of Hans Holbein); Caterina van Hemessen, 1527-66; the six Anguissola sisters, 1500s & 1600s ; etc. ….
Thank you for telling such a powerful story of a strong, talented, determined woman paving her way despite all odds! A lot for us to learn, 400 years later!
Excellent videos! I just watched the one about Frida followed by this one. It's wonderful to hear a man talk about women and feminism in art! Well done, we need more men like you (and not only) in art!
I got so absorbed in the video that I saw modern clothes on the canvas and how modern her painting might have come across. It was like I forgot all the painting eras that happened after that one up till now. The context is of the essence and you are mastering that part - I felt rage against the patriarchal atmosphere of that time and in the same time tremendous respect for the artist and her legacy. Thank you so much.
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In Gentileschi's painting, the eyes of Holofernes appear to be directed toward the viewer, which draws us into the painting -- as witnesses & almost as accomplices....
Someone needs to give this person a Netflix Series! I've seen a beautiful analysis of the same painting, but it does not come close to how wonderfully this video essay is made! The entire body of her works and the parallels of her life are simply beautifully woven together in the narration. And such a powerful closing of the video, on narration and editing choices. Kudos! 👏👏 Please don't stop making these videos!
Learning about Artemisia Gentileschi for the first time in one of my college art history classes was so exciting, I immediately adored her and her work. I've had her Judith painting as the header on my Twitter account for awhile now, I just love all the messages it sends.
I enjoy all of it. I especially enjoy when you explain the trajectories and shape the artist use to direct focus in their paintings. And this one, you explained all the limbs point towards the man’s head. In the Picasso painting you talked about the light triangle. So interesting!
It is not surprising that your channel has over half a million subscribers. The quality and variety of the content is brilliant. I just limit myself to one video per week to enable full appreciation of the subject matter. Thanks for another great story.
Remarkable. Moving. Stunning art with deeply informed commentary. I've seen this painting so many times in books and thought...ah, another Caravaggio-esque baroque murder scene! Now I finally "feel" this work in my soul. Thank you for the superb writing, pacing and giving Artemisia Gentileschi her contemporary due. I've enthusiastically subscribed!
Brilliant commentary on one of my favourite paintings. I have been known to travel out of my way to Florence just to have 10 minutes in front of it. Wonderful video James. Please keep them coming.
Simply praising you, giving you likes are just very small thing that we can do.Your work,your passion,your dedication,your intellect, the composed and comprehensive mindset reflected from your voiceover, your attitude,the information- everything related with these fifteen golden minutes are so precious and power packed that simple praising phrases are just limited version of our mesmerising expression!
From here we can see that art is a representation's of the maker's feeling. As Caravaggio has his own masterpiece that holds all his emotions, means that he is capable of making emotional art. Yet his Judith killing Holofernes piece didn't hold the same rage as Gentileschi's simply because he didn't feel the same rage. Gentileschi, a victim herself, pours her rage into the canvas, creating a masterpiece that speaks a thousand words while being still. It is amazing indeed, how one same theme could be different. I really like Caravaggio but Gentileschi's Judith piece is just on another level. I really love the way you describe her and her success, indeed, she didn't need pity just because she was a victim, she needs to be celebrated for her bravery and her strong will. Amazing. Thank you very much!
What really puts your content a touch above the rest is that you aren't speeding through the content. The only other Art History Videos and Podcasts rattle through the content SO FAST and it's hard to take it all in. I adore how you've edited these videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, always a pleasure to watch.
Emma L.: Hello! I'm so glad to see your comment about the Art History video: "Judith Slaying Holofernes". You mentioned that this narrator's is a touch above the rest, because he isn't speeding through the content. You are the first viewer I've seen who wrote in about this issue, and I'm so glad you did. It's about something that's been bothering me considerably: Many narrators just rush through the words as though they got a bonus for finishing early! I like to understand what's being said and have a fraction of a second to grasp it. Same goes for the increased speed in so many modern videos and movies. I like this uploader very much and want to thank you for bringing up this point. Be well!
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Dude I seriously love your videos. I was never really big into art but all of your videos are so wonderfully made and so interesting I really appreciate what you do. You are my favorite art teacher ever
I was fortunate enough to follow a tour, conducted by an art intern/,PHD candidate through the British Museum of Art who explained the evolution of painting in terms of how people through the ages regarded God and spirituality through the ages. As much as I'd always revered art that journey as well as your presentations have provided so much more richness to viewing and understanding painting and the development of all of us Thank you
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Thank you so much for this video. I've always loved this painting, but could quite put my finger on exactly *why* it drew me in and affected me so much, until now. Whilst the pain and humiliation the artist suffered breaks my heart, I'm grateful to videos like this for ensuring her story and talent keep reaching new people.
Excellent presentation! Took my breathe away and at the end bought me to tears! What an extraordinary woman Artemesia was! Thank you James, could you please do one on Vermeer?
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This video gets right to the heart of the stunning work od Artemisia Gentileschi and explores the biographical reality of a strong women who fought against a system that excluded women. It set's the historical timetable and reveals the re-discovery of her work with the coming of feminism and how Artemisia is rediscovered. For so long Caravaggio has been considered the master of his particular technique, Payne seems to hint that Artemisia takes this techique a step further in intensity and style..
Thank you for your lovely comment. I think we expect women of previous centuries to be unacknowledged and dismissed by the establishment but it is more shocking that today’s female artists are dismissed - or undervalued in the marketplace. Gentileschi’s self portrait as Saint Catherine recently acquired by the national gallery, is only the 21st painting by a female artist they own. Out of 2,300 works!
@@GreatArtExplained That's quite a statistic when one considers the progress made...it gives one a moment to reflect on how far things still have to go for effective change.
@@NietzscheanMan Exactly give me a break. Men of the West do not hold back their women still. There just isn't as many women interested in certain topics or fields still that were traditionally male. Its not that they're being held back. Most just don't care. And statistics time and time again show that. But that will change over time on its own, and I'm cool with that I have a daughter I want her to do what she wants to do if she is capable of it. But its being forced right now into everything which is producing crap because the real artist (male or female) are being sidelined by the WOKE. Feminism today belongs in the Middle East and places like India and Asia. But not the West.
@@yodasmomisondrugs7959 indeed, for all you need to know about diverging male/female interests look at the composition of the top100 chess players in the world. Completely level playing field with no barriers to entry.
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I fully enjoyed this episode about Artemisia Gentileschi -- in fact, it is one of my favorites for so many reasons. *Thank you* for sharing interesting and enlightening content that enriches our lives!
I can't tell you how much I am enjoying this channel. Excellent work! I have watched all of them in one sitting, so I'll certainly be looking forward to more!
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I have seen copies of this painting many times, but had no idea of the life of the artist who created it. As well as the elements of composition that were discussed here, I can see a double triangle shape. The heads of the three figures form one triangle, and Holofernes' head and knees form the second, narrower one. it is masterfully complex.
OK wow... where to begin... Rain Delay is a Venetian culture and history influnced metal ensemble, enamoured with Vivaldi's Juditha Triumphans devicta Holofernis, which we often use as an intro track on our concerts... and just today our drummer Antonio Maletin (who is also a formidable painter) shared this wonderful video, not about the musical work inspired by the Judith story, but about this astonishing woman who has defied all the odds. Frankly, I am not even sure if Antonio knew that there was a correlation between the musical work and the painting. So, I knew pretty much everything about Vivaldi's oratorio, how it was commisioned after the Venetian win over the Turks at the siege of Corfu in 1716 and what it means for today's Venetian national identity... However, I never knew this immensely powerful story behind this very painting, and particularly, the story about the author herself. Artemisia was truly a splendid persona... and this video is quite a splendid effort, I must say.
I loved this video! I was recommended this video right after we covered Artemisia in my women artists course, so great timing. When I saw this painting at the Uffizi many years ago before knowing anything about it, I was enraptured without knowing why. There is certainly something about it that still resonates with modern viewers. Just subscribed and look forward to more videos!
Oh wow I’m pleased that your course recommended it! The painting is incredibly modern and radical. I love the Caravaggio version too (Caravaggio is my next film), but it pales in comparison with Gentileschi in many ways. Thanks so much for watching - and commenting!
Your videos are not just informative but compelling as well. Made me think and feel. Really hoping for your channel's success. Thank you for all your hard work on these.
Another insightful and compelling short art history film from James Payne. Great to learn more about Artemisia Gentileschi, one of the few successful female artists of her day and an excellent preview to the forthcoming exhibition of her work at London's National Gallery.
Only recently did I hear a story (narrated on YT) that answered so eloquently Freud's puzzled question. What do women want? Choice. Thanks for this great video.
I couldn’t help but think that the maid servant and Judith were both her. There is similarity in features and form. You never mentioned that but it felt that that’s what she thought- she needed two of her to do the job well.
Revisiting this because I fell more in love with Artemisia because of your video! Also, wow being friends with Galileo is a FLEX I didn't catch the first time
Tenebrism... I now know the proper term for the type of art I like! Cinematic is a very good way to.put it. I don't know anything about art at all but that painting is brilliant... it draws you in, it has movement and feels visceral and you can imagine the reality of it. The colours too... beautiful. I just discovered your channel today and am off to binge!
This is mainly a theory, but I think she is also her own model in her artworks because she wouldn’t want other men to attribute her works. I'm glad she did it because no other man could have said it was his painting, because she was there, in the picture. Intelligent woman she was.
Plus as an artist myself, I can attest it is waaay easier to reference yourself if you're broke and need to study a body for a really long time. Like. You're right there and you don't have to pay yourself lol
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for this video. I have learned so much from your videos, and I agree with another comment that this one really struck a chord with me. Excellent work! I am so grateful!
Artemisia Gentileschi wasn't just the greatest female painter of her time. She was one of the greatest painters of her time regardless of gender. I adore Caravaggio, he is brilliant, but her Judith puts his to shame. It is one of the most powerful paintings ever created even not knowing the backstory. Thank you for a great video on this.
Thanks for watching!
i felt attacked as i am a fan of caravaggio, but i had not seen his version. i agree. hers is more ruthless and vengefull
@@trippleblaaack Caravaggio is utterly brilliant. This is one of very few cases (only case?) where his motive has been surpassed by another artist.
@@MariaVosa yes. she actually outdid him
@@emilereynaud4255 Go on, what would those be?
'Women can't paint' - critics who are critics because they can't paint
I can't even describe the way this video made me feel. Even though no one helped her in her hour of need, she was still able to have the vision of a strong woman helping another take down the savage. Thank you for sharing her story and her work.
How about a Netflix series? This stuff is gold.
Honestly, it feels like as I listen and watch, my eyes are being taught how to see, which I love. All of the films have been excellent, though this one, at this time in particular spoke to my own heart. Thank you so much.
Thanks so much for watching Sandra!
Yes it's really well done!
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💯 feel the same way
I've been trying to figure out how to express what James has been doing for me through these videos. "My eyes are being taught how to see" is exactly how I feel. Thank you for sharing. And, thank you James for teaching so many of us.
I've always felt that Caravaggio pulled his punches in depicting Judith killing Holofernes - she looks like she's found a slug while chopping lettuce - and yet in his Crucifixion of St Peter he really shows the sheer determination and physical effort required to kill a man, as Gentileschi does here, so maybe he struggled to depict a woman doing something so unwomanly!. The position of the sword in Gentileschi's painting had completely passed me by, so thank you - I've subscribed and am off to binge the rest of your videos.
Thanks for the comment heather - I will use your slug analogy from now on! Yes Caravaggio’s Judith is very ‘dainty’ and unlikely to be able to finish the task. Although I suppose she had god on her side! It will be interesting to see what you think of my Caravaggio video. I think his taking of Christ can’t be beat. Thanks for watching 🙏
Caravaggio’s was painted a bit better from a glance, but both of their demonstrations of beheading were bad. Caravaggio’s example was far worse in part by the woman’s over extending arm would have had absolutely no leverage. Both painted it as if it was razor sharp, and both are using a the sword as if it were a saw? Both hands should’ve been on the handle coming down from over top of him then back towards her self in a lobbing motion. Why the sawing in both? Makes no sense unless she used his as a direct reference and being unfamiliar with the sword’s action she copied Caravaggio’s mistake? Or like you said the sword was being guided by god’s strength, in which case Caravaggio is highlighting this obvious impossibility by purposefully placing her at such distance that anyone such as us can’t help but notice and comment. Perhaps the message is as I believe it’s said in the Bible and I’m paraphrasing “show faith and take action and god will take it from here”. I never realized how much I adore Baroque paintings, does anyone paint in that style anymore?
@@chaddsteinberg3758 i think the sawing motion is more “intimate” in a way. swinging the sword would require distance but that wouldn’t match how personal her motives were. sawing at the neck requires judith to hold his head in her hand, forcing his gaze even while he dies, forcing him to fully acknowledge who it is doing this to him. he has lost all control, and to the hand of a woman at that. perhaps that’s how she greeted him as she walked into the room to kill him, with a gentle touch to the face to lower his guard. he is being slaughtered like an animal, he doesn’t deserve the decency of a quick death. personally i also think it mirrors other depictions of this event, where judith is holding his already severed head in triumph. it’s almost like she can’t wait to do this, preemptively pulling his head away from his body, tearing as much as she is cutting
@@chaddsteinberg3758 Maybe Roberto Ferri is a good option of a modern day artist
I feel like in Caravaggio's version, she is showing a lot of disgust and intended distance but not because of fear or unability. For me the disgust is not for her action but for Holofernes. That's why she is standing so separate and bowed away, supported by the dark " bow" between her and Holofernes. She easily cuts of his head but doesn't want to come to close to him because of disgust. At least that's how I feel about it.
The blood stained sheets also gives us a time line of the cutting. For the drops to reach the floor via the sheets doesn’t happen instantly.
Never knew I was so interested in art like this until I found this channel
Glad you like it - thanks 🙏
Me too
Sounds like she never gave up the hunt, true to her namesake
I love this. As an artist and victim of abuse myself (albeit of a different variety) Gentileschi’s work deeply resonates with me. I am particularly fond of her depiction of Judith. As a form of expression and as a coping mechanism, I have taken a page out of her book and i created my own version of Judith and Holofernes. My abuser plays Holofernes and I am the handmaiden. I have given the staring role of Judith to my mother, because she suffered the most from his abuse and in my opinion, has the right to the killing blow. I am merely her assistant, the stocks that hold him in place as the guillotine’s blade finally drops. my hand basket sits to the side, eagerly awaiting the fruit from this harvest.
While it doesn’t come close to Gentileschi’s masterpiece, I will say it was very Cathartic to be able to channel all that rage and give my abuser a punishment fit for his crimes. 10/10 would recommend. Not as satisfying as the real thing but hey, can’t go to jail for a drawing so 🤷🏼♀️
Thanks so much for sharing that story - in so many ways, things don’t change. It sounds like a powerful piece of work, and like Gentileschi, you are working from your heart.
I am a big fan of Gentileschi and her story still resonates. Thanks for watching the video and I hope you get to watch some of the others.
James
Thanks for sharing.
I genuinely believe this is the best video essay on UA-cam. The references to cultural events, the life story of the painter, references to the trial, to the Mendeci family…. I adore all of it.
Thanks 🙏
Her life story would be a great movie
It would!!
The book blood water paint is beautiful retelling of her life story and it has already been adapted to a stage play 👀 I’m just waiting for someone to pick it up for the big screens
@asilahzaharuddin There is a movie about her, it's called Artemisia circa 1998
I thought the same.
@@NeitherYouNorIAreRight thanks for recs
Sad to think that the stigma over women who report rape is still very much alive today
It is sadly
And the lack of justice....not much has changed
Thank you for this video...fantastic!!!! Man, when you look at the Caravaggio and the Gentileschi side by side, you really see the difference between a well-executed work and a damn masterpiece.
Caravaggio's is obviously technically great, but Judith is a little girl, timid and, most importantly, unconvincing that she is physically or psychologically capable of performing the task at hand. It's as though she's just repulsed, magically holding a heavy sword, and cutting through a man's neck that's made of soft paper. Surely Caravaggio is telling us that there is no way a woman (the more gentile and weak of the sexes) really could have done this on her own. The story's a fiction, a fantasy. Jeez. Talk about passive-aggressive.
Gentileschi's Judith on the other hand is just...wow. The complete opposite. There is power, struggle and true violence in the act. And the look on Judith's face...she's not angry, really...just determined to do the job and yet...there is a bit of that look of getting revenge. It's a telling and serious work of art. Don't mess with Artemisia.
I loved this video and story so much that last year, I went to Italy on a guided tour. It was basically impossible due to our schedule for me to visit this painting in Florence, but I told my guide how excited I was about this, so she made it possible and delayed the guided tour (just a little bit, everyone else got to enjoy Florence some more because of this) so I could see this painting. Today, it's one of my most beautiful and fond memories that I will remember my whole life. Thanks to you two.
She inspires me so much. So resilient and SO incredibly talented. She is one of my favourite artists of all time ❤️
Thanks 🙏
I love that you've championed women's art. thank you and well done.
A compelling story of injustice, corruption and sweet revenge, told in scholarly detail - and with a certain relish (I'm glad you included Holofernes' screams).
I’m glad you noticed the scream! It was pretty subtle!
AAAARGH, I want to shout her name to the heavens! I'm not an art student, so I always conflated Caravaggio's painting with hers. And not being "artsy" or Catholic, I didn't know there were so many depictions of this. Heck, I didn't know there was a "Book of Judith"!
After watching this, I'm a little proud of myself that I could distinguish the "themes" between hers and his, before you pointed it out.😊 HIS=Unwilling Necessity vs HER=Culling
So much more to say, but...AAAARGH!!!!!
Really loving your analyses!
But I think the revenge and anger you note fully captures the rage and righteousness I get from the painting. The strength and intensity of her grip - with the righteous centring of the sword held firm against his powerless writhing, she pulls his head back and down to look up to the onlooker. It feels like she’s forcing him to confront us with what he’s done - a sort of ‘look at them and tell them what you did.’ But she takes his voice and his power away. She is focussed and in control of her actions.
I find her pose strange, it’s almost like she’s pouring a large jug of water. To me, she’s forcibly pouring the truth out of him. As vicious as this painting seems, I’d imagine this trial is by no means as violent as what was done to her.
Gentileschi’s depiction indeed possesses raw power dynamically plus the chiaroscuro in application. The experience is cinematic. Thanks for this video
This is the most underrated UA-cam channel.
Bravo!!! It is good to see that the female professional artists of the past-others, as well as Artemesia-are being brought to the attention of the public. There were so many that have been left out-Levina Teerlinc, 1520-76 (whose salary was more than that of Hans Holbein); Caterina van Hemessen, 1527-66; the six Anguissola sisters, 1500s & 1600s ; etc. ….
So interesting! Particularly liked the “parallels /comparisons “ with Caravaggio’s
Thanks so much Josette and thanks for watching! James
Fun fact: before 2013, this work of art was kept with the Caravaggio collection in Le Gallerie degli Uffizi.
Thank you for telling such a powerful story of a strong, talented, determined woman paving her way despite all odds! A lot for us to learn, 400 years later!
Boy oh boy, am I ever happy I stumbled upon this channel.
Excellent videos! I just watched the one about Frida followed by this one. It's wonderful to hear a man talk about women and feminism in art! Well done, we need more men like you (and not only) in art!
I got so absorbed in the video that I saw modern clothes on the canvas and how modern her painting might have come across. It was like I forgot all the painting eras that happened after that one up till now. The context is of the essence and you are mastering that part - I felt rage against the patriarchal atmosphere of that time and in the same time tremendous respect for the artist and her legacy. Thank you so much.
That’s an awesome thing to say - thank you 🙏
As a great fan of professionalism and genuine quality , I am now hooked on "Great art explained"
Thanks so much for watching - and the lovely comment!
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In Gentileschi's painting, the eyes of Holofernes appear to be directed toward the viewer, which draws us into the painting -- as witnesses & almost as accomplices....
Someone needs to give this person a Netflix Series! I've seen a beautiful analysis of the same painting, but it does not come close to how wonderfully this video essay is made!
The entire body of her works and the parallels of her life are simply beautifully woven together in the narration. And such a powerful closing of the video, on narration and editing choices. Kudos! 👏👏
Please don't stop making these videos!
Learning about Artemisia Gentileschi for the first time in one of my college art history classes was so exciting, I immediately adored her and her work. I've had her Judith painting as the header on my Twitter account for awhile now, I just love all the messages it sends.
Emotional and powerful with exquisite skill - Gentileschi’s art prevails.
I enjoy all of it. I especially enjoy when you explain the trajectories and shape the artist use to direct focus in their paintings. And this one, you explained all the limbs point towards the man’s head. In the Picasso painting you talked about the light triangle. So interesting!
Oh thanks for saying! I appreciate it!
It is not surprising that your channel has over half a million subscribers. The quality and variety of the content is brilliant. I just limit myself to one video per week to enable full appreciation of the subject matter. Thanks for another great story.
Remarkable. Moving. Stunning art with deeply informed commentary. I've seen this painting so many times in books and thought...ah, another Caravaggio-esque baroque murder scene! Now I finally "feel" this work in my soul. Thank you for the superb writing, pacing and giving Artemisia Gentileschi her contemporary due. I've enthusiastically subscribed!
Brilliant commentary on one of my favourite paintings. I have been known to travel out of my way to Florence just to have 10 minutes in front of it. Wonderful video James. Please keep them coming.
Thanks so much Daniel - I’ve loved that painting for years and am so looking forward to seeing it again at the national gallery this week!
Super relevante a história de Artemísia e precisa ser difundida para fortalecer as mulheres contra a opressão e discriminação. Obrigada por isso!
Simply praising you, giving you likes are just very small thing that we can do.Your work,your passion,your dedication,your intellect, the composed and comprehensive mindset reflected from your voiceover, your attitude,the information- everything related with these fifteen golden minutes are so precious and power packed that simple praising phrases are just limited version of our mesmerising expression!
Oh wow that is such a lovely comment to hear - thanks so much 🙏
you could also support him on Patreon if you can/want:)
From here we can see that art is a representation's of the maker's feeling. As Caravaggio has his own masterpiece that holds all his emotions, means that he is capable of making emotional art. Yet his Judith killing Holofernes piece didn't hold the same rage as Gentileschi's simply because he didn't feel the same rage. Gentileschi, a victim herself, pours her rage into the canvas, creating a masterpiece that speaks a thousand words while being still. It is amazing indeed, how one same theme could be different. I really like Caravaggio but Gentileschi's Judith piece is just on another level.
I really love the way you describe her and her success, indeed, she didn't need pity just because she was a victim, she needs to be celebrated for her bravery and her strong will. Amazing. Thank you very much!
This woman is amazing
She really was - thanks for watching 🙏 do check out my other videos!
What really puts your content a touch above the rest is that you aren't speeding through the content. The only other Art History Videos and Podcasts rattle through the content SO FAST and it's hard to take it all in. I adore how you've edited these videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, always a pleasure to watch.
Emma L.: Hello! I'm so glad to see your comment about the Art History video: "Judith
Slaying Holofernes". You mentioned that this narrator's is a touch above the rest, because he isn't speeding through the content. You are the first viewer I've seen who wrote in about this issue, and I'm so glad you did. It's about something that's been bothering me considerably: Many narrators just rush through the words as though they got a bonus for finishing early! I like to understand what's being said and have a fraction of a second to grasp it. Same goes for the increased speed in so many modern videos and movies. I like this uploader very much and want to thank you for bringing up this point. Be well!
Another terrific video. Artemisia would have loved to have seen your take on this. I'm sure she's smiling down at this very moment.
Oh thank you so much! And thanks for commenting. Much appreciated!
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@@GreatArtExplained Thank you for the invitation. We just typed our choices. We continue to love your work. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Dude I seriously love your videos. I was never really big into art but all of your videos are so wonderfully made and so interesting I really appreciate what you do. You are my favorite art teacher ever
I was fortunate enough to follow a tour, conducted by an art intern/,PHD candidate through the British Museum of Art who explained the evolution of painting in terms of how people through the ages regarded God and spirituality through the ages. As much as I'd always revered art that journey as well as your presentations have provided so much more richness to viewing and understanding painting and the development of all of us
Thank you
This story would make a great movie, exploring the themes of female oppression and abuse, feminism, liberation
Fantastic, James. Thank you.
Thanks for watching Jason!
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Thank you so much for this video. I've always loved this painting, but could quite put my finger on exactly *why* it drew me in and affected me so much, until now. Whilst the pain and humiliation the artist suffered breaks my heart, I'm grateful to videos like this for ensuring her story and talent keep reaching new people.
Excellent presentation! Took my breathe away and at the end bought me to tears! What an extraordinary woman Artemesia was! Thank you James, could you please do one on Vermeer?
Thanks Rosie! Vermeer will happen... eventually 🙏
I'd seen this painting before but this is the first time I've learned of the story behind it. As always, great work!
Thanks - so much for the lovely comments! Great to finally do AG!
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Thank you for including a female artist. I wish I had knew about her when I was younger maybe I wouldn't have quit painting for so many years.
You explained this in such a powerful and meaningful way. Thank you so much, it reached my heart in so many ways. Thank you 💐
This video gets right to the heart of the stunning work od Artemisia Gentileschi and explores the biographical reality of a strong women who fought against a system that excluded women. It set's the historical timetable and reveals the re-discovery of her work with the coming of feminism and how Artemisia is rediscovered. For so long Caravaggio has been considered the master of his particular technique, Payne seems to hint that Artemisia takes this techique a step further in intensity and style..
Thank you for your lovely comment. I think we expect women of previous centuries to be unacknowledged and dismissed by the establishment but it is more shocking that today’s female artists are dismissed - or undervalued in the marketplace. Gentileschi’s self portrait as Saint Catherine recently acquired by the national gallery, is only the 21st painting by a female artist they own. Out of 2,300 works!
@@GreatArtExplained That's quite a statistic when one considers the progress made...it gives one a moment to reflect on how far things still have to go for effective change.
@@GreatArtExplained yes, what art needs is more wokeness and diversity hires.
@@NietzscheanMan Exactly give me a break. Men of the West do not hold back their women still. There just isn't as many women interested in certain topics or fields still that were traditionally male. Its not that they're being held back. Most just don't care. And statistics time and time again show that. But that will change over time on its own, and I'm cool with that I have a daughter I want her to do what she wants to do if she is capable of it. But its being forced right now into everything which is producing crap because the real artist (male or female) are being sidelined by the WOKE. Feminism today belongs in the Middle East and places like India and Asia. But not the West.
@@yodasmomisondrugs7959 indeed, for all you need to know about diverging male/female interests look at the composition of the top100 chess players in the world. Completely level playing field with no barriers to entry.
This episode is so powerful. It deserves a lot of views…
This channel is INCREDIBLE.
What an absolute gift! ❤
Brilliantly narrated and explained James. Such a great pleasure to watch :)
Thanks so much David!
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that was so brilliant. thank you for telling these stories.
Your art history lessons are exceptional, we are greatly blessed by them. Thank you.
I fully enjoyed this episode about Artemisia Gentileschi -- in fact, it is one of my favorites for so many reasons. *Thank you* for sharing interesting and enlightening content that enriches our lives!
I can't tell you how much I am enjoying this channel. Excellent work! I have watched all of them in one sitting, so I'll certainly be looking forward to more!
Thanks so much for saying. More on the way!
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@@GreatArtExplained Excellent! Thanks!
Thank you for teaching me how to see
Greatest "female" painter of the Baroque.... She's one of the very top painters of the Baroque. Full stop.
You continue to amaze. Incredible painting, incredible story of female power.
Thank you 🙏
This video is amazing!I don’t really know enough about art to make educated comments but this video gave me so much to think about.
Thanks for your comment 🙏
Absolutely stunning! I will definitely bring this to my Modern History Classes! Thank You!
I had never seen this painting before, but as soon as I looked at it I said, "That is one pissed off woman."
Artemisia Gentileschi es lo máximo, she rocks !!!!!!!!!!!! 🥰🥰
She sure does! Thank you so much for watching!
I have seen copies of this painting many times, but had no idea of the life of the artist who created it. As well as the elements of composition that were discussed here, I can see a double triangle shape. The heads of the three figures form one triangle, and Holofernes' head and knees form the second, narrower one. it is masterfully complex.
OK wow... where to begin... Rain Delay is a Venetian culture and history influnced metal ensemble, enamoured with Vivaldi's Juditha Triumphans devicta Holofernis, which we often use as an intro track on our concerts... and just today our drummer Antonio Maletin (who is also a formidable painter) shared this wonderful video, not about the musical work inspired by the Judith story, but about this astonishing woman who has defied all the odds. Frankly, I am not even sure if Antonio knew that there was a correlation between the musical work and the painting. So, I knew pretty much everything about Vivaldi's oratorio, how it was commisioned after the Venetian win over the Turks at the siege of Corfu in 1716 and what it means for today's Venetian national identity... However, I never knew this immensely powerful story behind this very painting, and particularly, the story about the author herself. Artemisia was truly a splendid persona... and this video is quite a splendid effort, I must say.
I loved this video! I was recommended this video right after we covered Artemisia in my women artists course, so great timing.
When I saw this painting at the Uffizi many years ago before knowing anything about it, I was enraptured without knowing why. There is certainly something about it that still resonates with modern viewers.
Just subscribed and look forward to more videos!
Oh wow I’m pleased that your course recommended it!
The painting is incredibly modern and radical. I love the Caravaggio version too (Caravaggio is my next film), but it pales in comparison with Gentileschi in many ways.
Thanks so much for watching - and commenting!
Your work is just gold. Way way better than most videos related to art I've ever seen
Your videos get me through one hell of a period in my life. These insights are like fresh water after a long run in the sun. Thank you!!
Thanks 🙏
I remember seeing this painting when I was in Florence. It’s truly astonishing. Loved the video!
The image of the group of girls looking at the painting at the end....my God what an inspiration
Your videos are not just informative but compelling as well. Made me think and feel. Really hoping for your channel's success. Thank you for all your hard work on these.
Another insightful and compelling short art history film from James Payne. Great to learn more about Artemisia Gentileschi, one of the few successful female artists of her day and an excellent preview to the forthcoming exhibition of her work at London's National Gallery.
Thanks so much. I appreciate the comment! She truly was remarkable.
your shorty, interesting insightful videos should be shown in schools everywhere. Congratulations,
Only recently did I hear a story (narrated on YT) that answered so eloquently Freud's puzzled question. What do women want? Choice. Thanks for this great video.
I couldn’t help but think that the maid servant and Judith were both her. There is similarity in features and form. You never mentioned that but it felt that that’s what she thought- she needed two of her to do the job well.
These videos are truly fascinating. Thank you!
Revisiting this because I fell more in love with Artemisia because of your video! Also, wow being friends with Galileo is a FLEX I didn't catch the first time
WOW, I just found this channel and and dont wanna get out of here. Awesome
Tenebrism... I now know the proper term for the type of art I like! Cinematic is a very good way to.put it. I don't know anything about art at all but that painting is brilliant... it draws you in, it has movement and feels visceral and you can imagine the reality of it. The colours too... beautiful.
I just discovered your channel today and am off to binge!
I can only echo what's written in the other comments. Fantastic, I esp loved the sound effect in the beginning x
Haha - I wasn’t sure whether to put the sound effects in but went with it in the end! Thanks for the comment!
I love this painting so much. Whereas I knew the story behind It. I was excited to learn EVEN more. This painting could be used today in America.
I'm obsessed with this channel. Thank you!!
I've been bin watching your catalogue of work. Subscribed. Excellent work
Another great video. The art, the history, the detail . . . all combine to make a great presentation.
Thanks so much!
This is mainly a theory, but I think she is also her own model in her artworks because she wouldn’t want other men to attribute her works.
I'm glad she did it because no other man could have said it was his painting, because she was there, in the picture.
Intelligent woman she was.
Plus as an artist myself, I can attest it is waaay easier to reference yourself if you're broke and need to study a body for a really long time. Like. You're right there and you don't have to pay yourself lol
Thank you for new perspective and inside behind this painting !! Keep it up 👏🏻
Brilliant!... you get the message across in a way that we can all understand...without waffling.
Thank you very much James. Such a wonderful video ❤
Thank you for this🙏💕
Subscribed!! Such passion and amazing information described in your videos! I can’t stop watching. Truly amazing! 💛
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for this video. I have learned so much from your videos, and I agree with another comment that this one really struck a chord with me. Excellent work! I am so grateful!
I love your series! Keep up the great work friend!
Thankyou for this one James, she's one of my favourites 🤘💜
Man, these videos are just so good.
Amazing, insightful and well crafted content
Great work!!! Thank you.