It is interesting to compare Caravagio’s work with a later work by Gentileschi. Gentileschi’s version is a lot more visceral, with more blood, greater detail, and a more determined expression on Judith’s face. In Caravaggio’s depiction, Judith is of slight figure and bears an almost reluctant expression; despite the setting, there is little physical violence. By contrast, in the Gentileschi version, Holofernes holds the collar of Judith’s aide, holding her at bay.

The Feast of Bacchus, Museo del Prado, Madrid.

The Garden of Earthly Delights is a large triptych named for the garden depicted in its central panel. According to one commentator, the triptych represents the history of the world and the development of Christian notions of sin. This history begins on the outside shutters with the creation story, followed by Adam and Eve (left panel) to the present day of sinful conduct (centre panel), forwards to a fiery vision of future damnation (right panel).  Read more »

I saw this in the Museo Nacional del Prado, Madrid, January 2007.