David with the head of Goliath

This David with the Head of Goliath from around 1650 is a late treatment of the subject showing Gentileschi's evolved approach to heroic biblical narrative. Her late works show a broader, more fluid handling while maintaining the dramatic power of her earlier Caravaggist manner. Artemisia Gentileschi's powerfully direct treatment of female subjects—heroines, saints, and biblical figures depicted with unprecedented psychological force and physical credibility—makes her one of the most significant figures in the Baroque tradition.

The composition presents David with the trophy head in dramatic lighting. Gentileschi's late handling shows broader brushwork while maintaining the tenebristic contrasts of her style.