Onthoofding van Johannes de Doper 1617

Dietrich Krüger created this print, titled "Beheading of John the Baptist," around the turn of the 17th century. Krüger lived through the Reformation, a period that saw seismic shifts in religious authority, with a rise in violence. The image depicts the biblical execution of John the Baptist, ordered by King Herod at the request of Salome. Krüger presents a stark composition, emphasizing the brutality of the act as the executioner displays John's severed head. It speaks to the dangerous dance between power, desire, and morality. The male body is central here, with the muscular executioner and the kneeling John highlighting themes of physical strength and vulnerability. Krüger's work invites reflection on the treatment of religious figures throughout history and the ways in which power dynamics often lead to injustice and violence.