Artwork

Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist, by Juan Bautista Maíno, oil, 1597
Saint John the Baptist, by Juan Bautista Maíno, oil, 1597

Saint John the Baptist is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Juan Bautista Maíno. It dates from 1597 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Saint John the Baptist is an oil painting by Juan Bautista Maíno, created in 1597. It is a representation of the biblical figure John the Baptist and is held at the Museo del Prado.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a youthful John the Baptist seated by a rocky stream, accompanied by a deer or gazelle. The serene atmosphere and gentle interaction between the figure and the animal convey a sense of peacefulness.

Technique & Style

The artist achieved a striking contrast between the figure and the background through the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that utilizes strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume.

Context

The painting's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emerged during the Renaissance, reflects the artistic innovations of the time.

Artist & collection

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.