Artwork
John de Baptist (recto); a skull (verso)
John de Baptist (recto); a skull (verso) is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Memling. It dates from 1470 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting on panel, attributed to Hans Memling, features two distinct images: John the Baptist on the front and a skull on the reverse. Created around 1470, it is a representative work of the Northern Renaissance.
Subject & Meaning
The front depicts John the Baptist seated outdoors, wearing a red robe and holding a small object, with a lamb and another animal nearby. The calm yet serious expression on his face, accompanied by a faint halo, conveys a sense of reverence and spiritual significance.
Technique & Style
The painting showcases Memling's skillful use of glazing to achieve rich, smooth colors. The textured rendering of the red robe, with its thick, heavy fabric appearance, adds depth to the composition.
History & Provenance
The painting is now housed at the Alte Pinakothek, a testament to its enduring significance in the art historical canon.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Memling was a German-Flemish painter who worked in the tradition of Early Netherlandish painting.
![Saint Veronica [obverse], by Hans Memling](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/hans-memling--saint-veronica-obverse--5a649fd8b09c96b9-w320.webp)
