Artwork
The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist
The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Hendrick ter Brugghen. It dates from 1618 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist is a 1618 oil painting by Hendrick ter Brugghen, a Dutch artist associated with the Utrecht Caravaggisti.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the biblical execution of Saint John the Baptist, capturing a moment of intense drama and emotion as the saint lies on the ground awaiting beheading.
Technique & Style
Ter Brugghen's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, with strong contrasts between light and dark that heighten the emotional intensity of the scene.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the Scottish National Gallery.
Context
Ter Brugghen was influenced by Caravaggio's dramatic use of light and shadow, and was a key figure among the Utrecht Caravaggisti, a group of Dutch artists working in the early Baroque style.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hendrick Jansz ter Brugghen (or Terbrugghen; 1588 – 1 November 1629) was a Dutch painter of genre scenes and religious subjects.
