Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Jörg Breu the Elder

Beheading of Saint John the Baptist c. 1530

drawing, print, paper, ink, ink-drawings, pen

drawing

toned paper

light pencil work

germany

print

pencil sketch

paper

personal sketchbook

ink

ink drawing experimentation

ink-drawings

pen-ink sketch

water

sketchbook drawing

pen

watercolour illustration

sketchbook art

watercolor

Jörg Breu the Elder's "Beheading of Saint John the Baptist" (c. 1530) is a pen and ink drawing depicting the biblical scene of John the Baptist's execution. The circular composition features a detailed depiction of the event, with the executioner and the figures of Herodias and Salome prominently displayed. Breu’s meticulous detail, characteristic of the German Renaissance style, enhances the narrative and visual impact. The artwork is currently in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.