Decollation of St. John the Baptist
Author: Unknown
Origin: Italy (?)
Dating: 17th century
Material: Oil on Canvas
Dimensions (cm): 181 x 240
Inv. no.: MNAA477 / PD0254dep
The Martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist is celebrated on August 29th. Along with the Virgin Mary, he is the only saint for whom the Liturgy celebrates both his earthly birth (June 24th) as well as his death (August 29th).
John was born near Jerusalem at the beginning of the 1st century AD and, according to the Gospel of Saint Luke, was the son of the priest Zechariah and of Elizabeth – of the family of Aaron, a cousin of the Virgin Mary. His birth – like that of Jesus Christ (six months later) – was the result of a miracle.
Little is known about his early life. However, his education was influenced by the temple and by religious teachings.
As an adult, Saint John the Baptist began his preaching life in the Judean desert, travelling along the western shore of the Dead Sea and along the Jordan River, preaching words of repentance and transformation. He became known for the practice of purification through immersion in water, that is, baptism (hence, the Baptist).
John was ruthless and severe in his words. He accused the Pharisees of hypocrisy and also criticized the conduct of the King of Israel – Herod Antipas – denouncing his adulterous life.
Saint John the Baptist was imprisoned by order of King Herod and taken to a fortress in present-day Jordan. At a Herod’s birthday party, Salome – daughter of Herod’s mistress Herodias – danced in honor of the king. Dazzled, he granted her whatever she wished. Instigated by Herodias, Salome asked for the head of Saint John the Baptist. Herod agreed and had Saint John the Baptist beheaded in prison. According to legend, his head was handed on a silver platter.
Traditionally, the martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist is represented with his decapitated head – placed on a silver platter – after his execution.
He is the patron saint of those unjustly persecuted for their faith, prisoners and the condemned, tailors, tanners and leather-workers.
