St. John Altarpiece left wing 1479

This oil painting, the left wing of the "St. John Altarpiece," was created by Hans Memling in 1479. It depicts the beheading of Saint John the Baptist, with the executioner, Herod, and Herodias prominently displayed. Memling masterfully captures the drama of the scene while employing meticulous detail, characteristic of Northern Renaissance art. The setting is a bustling cityscape, showcasing the architectural and social landscape of 15th-century Europe. This work, now part of a private collection, is a testament to Memling's skill in portraying religious narratives with emotional depth and visual realism.