Saint John the Baptist 1470 - 1480

Antonio Rossellino created this marble bust of Saint John the Baptist during the Early Renaissance in Florence. During this era, Florence was a Republic in name, but dominated by the Medici family who were patrons of the arts. Rossellino’s choice of subject and material, alongside the style of the portrait, would appeal to the sensibilities of wealthy patrons. He was a master of capturing humanistic individuality, and here, John is portrayed as a beautiful, young boy. While retaining the traditional representation of John the Baptist, Rossellino infuses the statue with a palpable humanity. What does it mean to depict a religious icon with such personal, intimate features? Does it make him more relatable, more human? Or does it diminish his spiritual significance? Consider how Rossellino's "Saint John the Baptist" prompts reflection on beauty, spirituality, and the intimate connection between the divine and the human.