Francesco Solimena

Francesco Solimena was the leading painter in Naples for half a century. His religious and mythological scenes are grand and theatrical, with dramatic light, swirling figures and strong, rich colour.

Born near Avellino, he trained with his father and was influenced by Luca Giordano and Mattia Preti. He painted frescoes for Naples churches, including the Triumph of Faith in San Domenico Maggiore, and received commissions from across Europe. He ran a large studio whose pupils included Francesco De Mura and Corrado Giaquinto. His Dido Receiving Aeneas and Cupid Disguised as Ascanius is in the National Gallery, London.

Judith with the Head of Holofernes shows his taste for dramatic moments and strong contrasts.