Adoration of The Child Jesus by St John the Baptist 1530 - 1540

Lucas Cranach the Elder's "Adoration of the Child Jesus by St. John the Baptist" is a captivating depiction of the encounter between the infant Jesus and John the Baptist. Painted sometime between 1530 and 1540, the artwork showcases the intricate details and distinctive style of the German Renaissance painter. The composition features the two figures prominently against a dark background, creating a dramatic contrast. John, holding a staff, stands with his foot on a skull, symbolizing death, while Jesus, seated with a lamb, gestures towards John. This work, with its symbolic imagery and masterful rendering, reflects Cranach's deep understanding of religious iconography and his ability to translate complex theological concepts into engaging visual narratives.