Artwork

Saint John the Baptist Preaching

Saint John the Baptist Preaching, by Paolo Veronese, oil, 1562
Saint John the Baptist Preaching, by Paolo Veronese, oil, 1562

Saint John the Baptist Preaching is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Paolo Veronese. It dates from 1562 and is held in the collection of the Galleria Borghese.

About this work

Overview

Saint John the Baptist Preaching is a 1562 oil-on-canvas painting by Paolo Veronese, currently held in the Galleria Borghese in Rome.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts John the Baptist standing in a landscape, preaching to a group of people. His gesture and expression convey a sense of urgency and importance, as he acts as a messenger for the coming of Jesus.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by its use of oil paint on canvas. The artist has used color and composition to draw attention to the central figure, with the red robe and halo distinguishing John the Baptist from the surrounding figures.

John the Baptist preaching
John the Baptist preaching, Hendrick van Balen the Elder

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paolo Veronese

Artist

Paolo Veronese

Paolo Caliari (1528 – 19 April 1588), known as Paolo Veronese ( VERR-ə-NAY-zay, -⁠zee, US also -⁠see; Italian: ), was an Italian Renaissance painter based in Venice, known for extremely large history paintings of…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Galleria Borghese open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Saint John the Baptist Preaching?

Saint John the Baptist Preaching was painted by Paolo Veronese in 1562.

Where can I see Saint John the Baptist Preaching?

Saint John the Baptist Preaching is held by Galleria Borghese.

What movement is Saint John the Baptist Preaching?

Saint John the Baptist Preaching is associated with Mannerism.