Saint John the Baptist [recto] c. 1460 - 1480

This woodcut print depicts Saint John the Baptist and was created by an anonymous artist. During the historical period when this print was made, religious imagery was often used to communicate moral and spiritual lessons to a largely illiterate population. Saint John, recognizable by his halo, is depicted holding a lamb, symbolizing Jesus. It is a visual shorthand for his role in Christian theology as the one who prepares the way for Christ. Consider the artist's decision to portray John as barefoot, adorned in simple garments. This stylistic choice emphasizes John’s humility, his commitment to living apart from the material world, and the idea of the lone prophet. Reflect on how this image, though small and simple in its execution, encapsulates complex theological ideas. It invites both reverence and introspection, shaping the viewer’s understanding of religious and moral values.