Saint John 1618

Peter Paul Rubens painted ‘Saint John’ in the 17th century, a period marked by religious reformations and the rise of powerful, often male, figures within the Church. Rubens’ John is caught looking upwards, illuminated, seemingly in divine conversation, while an eagle—the symbol associated with the saint—hovers protectively above. This image occurs in the context of a very strict, hierarchical, and often brutally enforced religious order. John is portrayed as a beacon of faith and theological strength. The book, an overt symbol of knowledge, is rendered heavy, weighted, clutched in his hand. His red robe is draped around him, which signals not only his saintly status, but also the blood of the martyrs. In the history of painting, the male gaze has been often seen as one of power and dominance. Here, John’s gaze transcends earthly concerns. By looking up, Rubens positions John within a spiritual, rather than a physical or social hierarchy. This painting asks us to consider where power truly lies.