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The Head of Saint John the Baptist, by Unknown, 1632

The Head of Saint John the Baptist

Unknown

1632

From the collection of Statens Museum for Kunst

Dominant colour

Overview

The Head of Saint John the Baptist is a 1632 by Unknown, depicting Beheaded Head, held at Statens Museum for Kunst.

Who painted this?
Unknown
When & what style?
1632
Where can I see it?
Statens Museum for Kunst

About this work

This black-and-white photo shows a single figure’s head resting on a dark surface. The person has short, wavy hair, a beard, and is wearing a loose, draped cloth over their shoulders. Their eyes are closed, and one hand rests on their chest. The image focuses on the head alone, cut off from the body. This kind of composition is often used to highlight drama or symbolism. Look up chiaroscuro to see how light and shadow create mood in art.

About the artist

More by Unknown

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