Beheading of John the Baptist

"Beheading of John the Baptist" is a captivating painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder, created in 1515. This powerful work, measuring 0.84 meters by 0.58 meters, is currently housed in the Kroměříž Archdiocesan Museum. As you can see, the painting depicts the dramatic moment of John the Baptist's execution. Notice the executioner on the left, kneeling as he holds his sword, while John the Baptist kneels on the right, his head tragically placed on a platter held by a woman. Cranach masterfully sets the scene in a forest, with a glimpse of a castle in the background, adding a layer of depth to the narrative.