John the Baptist holding a staff, from "Piccoli Santi" (Small Saints) 1495 - 1532

This engraving, "John the Baptist holding a staff" by Marcantonio Raimondi, is a part of the "Piccoli Santi" series and dates to 1495-1532. The artwork depicts John the Baptist, standing barefoot, with a halo, wearing a simple garment of animal skin and a cloth wrapped around his waist. The figure holds a staff in his right hand with a cross on top. The figure is framed by trees, adding a natural setting to the composition. Raimondi is known for his detailed and expressive engravings, and this piece is a good example of his mastery of the technique. This print is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York.