St. John the Evangelist 1504

Piero di Cosimo's "St. John the Evangelist" (1504) is a striking portrait of the apostle, known for his association with the symbol of a serpent. The saint is depicted in a blue tunic and a red cloak, holding a chalice with a serpent coiled around it, a visual representation of his ability to drink poison without harm. Cosimo's meticulous detail in the figures and the subtle light and shadow play create a sense of realism, characteristic of his work. This painting exemplifies the artistic style of the early Renaissance in Florence.