Sermon of Saint John the Baptist 1699

Ivan Rutkovych painted 'Sermon of Saint John the Baptist' sometime around 1700 in Ukraine, using tempera on wood. As an icon painter, Rutkovych was working within a long tradition of religious art, but he was also part of a vibrant cultural moment. Ukraine, at this time, was experiencing a revival of its unique artistic traditions, influenced by both Western European and Byzantine styles. Rutkovych's work reflects this blend, with its stylized figures and rich use of color, it speaks to a society grappling with its identity amidst shifting political and religious landscapes. The Orthodox Church, a major patron of the arts, played a crucial role in shaping artistic expression. Rutkovych, while adhering to iconographic conventions, infused his work with a distinct personal style, challenging the rigid norms of the time. Delving into archives and studying religious history helps us understand how Rutkovych used art to negotiate his place within these complex cultural and institutional forces.