Artwork
Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist is an oil painting by the High Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, created around 1486, is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci and is titled 'Saint John the Baptist'. It is housed at the Ashmolean Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a contemplative figure, identified as John the Baptist, with a serene expression and subtle smile. He gazes directly at the viewer, his right hand pointing upwards while his left hand rests on his chest.
Technique & Style
The subject is set against a dark background, which accentuates his skin and curly hair. A leopard-print cloth draped over his left shoulder adds a touch of texture to the composition.
Artist & collection
![Ginevra de' Benci [obverse], by Leonardo da Vinci](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/leonardo-da-vinci--ginevra-de-benci-obverse--afb6ec3a3e65f392-w320.webp)
![Wreath of Laurel, Palm, and Juniper with a Scroll inscribed Virtutem Forma Decorat [reverse], by Leonardo da Vinci](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/leonardo-da-vinci--wreath-of-laurel-palm-and-juniper-with-a-scroll-inscribed-vi--4cdfe8467ad2438a-w320.webp)

















