Head of Saint John the Baptist

Aelbert Bouts

Created:
Movement:
1505
Renaissance
key Notes:
Grisaille technique, Memento mori.
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Dimensions:
Diameter 11 1/8 in. (28.3 cm)
medium:
Oil on poplar
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

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Head of Saint John the Baptist by Aelbert Bouts

Head of Saint John the Baptist, created in 1505 by Aelbert Bouts, is an exemplary work of Northern Renaissance art, executed in oil on poplar. This painting reflects the period's fascination with religious themes and the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of the era. Bouts, a prominent figure in the Flemish art scene, was known for his devotional images and his ability to convey intense emotion through his subjects. The work's composition and use of light demonstrate Bouts' mastery in creating a lifelike representation, which was highly influential in the development of portraiture during the Renaissance. As the son of the renowned painter Dieric Bouts, Aelbert continued his father's legacy while establishing his own distinct style. This painting not only highlights Bouts' technical skill but also contributes to the broader understanding of religious iconography in early 16th-century art.

Description of the work:

Head of Saint John the Baptist by Aelbert Bouts

The painting "Head of Saint John the Baptist," created by Aelbert Bouts in 1505, is an oil on poplar work that exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style with its meticulous attention to detail and realistic portrayal of the human form. The artwork depicts the severed head of Saint John the Baptist, a common subject in Christian art, and is noted for its emotional intensity and use of rich, vibrant colors.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Head of Saint John the Baptist