Jules Joseph Lefebvre was a prolific painter of beautiful, somber women. He came to notoriety when his Death of Priam won the Prix de Rome in 1861. Later as a member of the French Académie des Beaux-Arts and professor at the Académie Julian in Paris, Lefebvre was known to be an excellent and sympathetic teacher. His own catalog includes over 30 portraits of women in revery – some mythological, some biblical, some actual portraits – but all luminous, dreamy and distracted.
His portrait of Judith is resolute. In profile, she seems to be frowning as she stares into the distance. It is unclear whether the deed is ahead or behind her. She is bejeweled from her elaborate headdress to her multiple bracelets to the rings on her fingers. Attired for seduction, she also appears as a warrior with her hand on the hilt of the sword that she holds by her side.
Jules Joseph Lefebvre (1836-1912), Judith (1892), Oil on canvas, 92.5 x 61 cm, auctioned by Sotheby’s 19th Century European Art May 18, 2016, New York, NY, USA
I confess to being enamored of this romantic style that reminds me of the Pre-Raphaelites. Lefebvre was not associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, although he was their contemporary and shared many characteristic of their style – the extreme attention to detail, the brilliant colors and the beautiful rendition of literary subjects. The illustrative elements invite the viewer to fabricate a story that gives context to the subject and leaves the impression that subject will confirm or deny the story any moment.
Vittoria Colonna (1861)
Ophelia (1890)
Clémence Isaure
But before I leave Lefèbvre, I have to mention this work of art: The Fiancé. I mean … have you ever seen a more unenthusiastic bride? I only hope this wasn’t painted as a gift to the groom!
Jules Joseph Lefebvre (1836-1912), La Fiancée, oil on canvas, 157.5×132 cm, private collection
yes, the title says my name is "Judith, to you." and it's as arrogant as it sounds. that's what happens when a giggley little girl is bestowed a heavy-weight name like Judith. but it's time to own my name. to be Shakespearean and wonder "What's in a name?" to learn about the artwork inspired by the name. to contemplate how a widow in a gleaming gown can decapitate a brute - and not muss her nails. join me in the bumpy ride through history and art and social change, all in the name of Judith.
judith2you 