Saint John the Evangelist 1545 - 1555

Curator: This is "Saint John the Evangelist," created by Jean III Péricaud between 1545 and 1555, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It's painted in tempera and intaglio on enamel. Editor: It’s strikingly delicate. The stark contrast between the silver figure and that intense black background is incredibly dramatic. And the way the light catches the face is remarkable, almost ethereal. Curator: Indeed. The luminous effect has connections with contemporary ideas about divine light and enlightenment. John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, is shown in profile, accompanied by his symbol, the eagle. It’s likely this enamel piece served as an element in a larger decorative ensemble, perhaps a reliquary or devotional object used within elite religious circles. Editor: I’m struck by how flattened the pictorial space is, especially for the period. There's a limited range of tones that contribute to this almost graphic effect. The composition leads the eye from the soft textures of the hair, to the precise edges of the face, then finally towards the black inky figure of the eagle. Curator: Absolutely, and consider the history surrounding this figure. John's gospel offered a unique theological interpretation of Jesus’s ministry. Examining interpretations of scripture and images like these within broader debates surrounding orthodoxy is fascinating. Were there subversive elements at play? Editor: I agree. Semiotically, the stark colour contrast emphasizes certain key characteristics. It feels both otherworldly, like an icon removed from earthly experience and very precise, due to its technical rendering and precision. Curator: Placing artwork in social context helps to uncover stories from past individuals as well. John’s depiction is interesting and worth analysing: here the young apostle is imbued with a sort of soft strength – at this moment in the mid-16th century Europe religious beliefs were tied tightly to concepts of identity and communal solidarity. Editor: Absolutely, looking at its form, colour, and structure enriches the artwork for an expanded experience for our audience. Curator: By engaging intersectional theory and cultural interpretation it adds multiple dimensions that enriches a viewing experience, by looking closer and opening to consider broader themes.