Artwork
Salome Receiving the Saint John the Baptist's Head
Salome Receiving the Saint John the Baptist's Head is an oil painting by John Runciman. It dates from 1765 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
Salome Receiving the Saint John the Baptist's Head is a painting created by Scottish artist John Runciman around 1765. It is an oil painting depicting a biblical scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Salome, a biblical figure, holding a platter with the severed head of Saint John the Baptist. The scene is drawn from a biblical narrative, capturing a moment of dramatic tension.
Technique & Style
Runciman employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of drama. The subject's face is illuminated against a dark, shadowy background, heightening the emotional impact of the scene.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the collection at the Scottish National Gallery, alongside other works by Runciman, such as Flight into Egypt and King Lear in the Storm.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Runciman (1744 – 1768 or 1769) was a Scottish painter known for Biblical and literary scenes. His works include Flight into Egypt and King Lear in the Storm, both in the National Gallery of Scotland.
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