Saint John the Baptist Going out into the Wilderness c. 1540

This 16th-century roundel, attributed to an unknown artist, depicts the biblical story of Saint John the Baptist leaving his home to live in the wilderness. The scene is set in front of an architectural structure, with John being led away by his parents and a group of followers. The use of yellow and brown tones contributes to the somber mood, reflecting John's renunciation of earthly possessions. The roundel, now in the Rijksmuseum, is a fine example of the use of glass painting to depict religious narratives in the 16th century.