The beheading of St John the Baptist 1640 - 1906

"The Beheading of St. John the Baptist" is a powerful etching by Rembrandt van Rijn, depicting the moment of John the Baptist’s execution. The composition focuses on the dramatic contrast between the executioner's raised sword and the bowed head of the saint. The use of chiaroscuro, with strong contrasts of light and shadow, creates a sense of suspense and immediacy, drawing the viewer into the scene. This print, created between 1640 and 1669, is a prime example of Rembrandt’s masterful use of etching to capture the intense emotions of a biblical story.