Lot 02

Unknown author BEHEADING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

The motif of the beheading of John the Baptist by an unknown author in the spirit of the Mannerist tradition in a generous format. The painting is dominated by portraits of Herodias in a pink precious dress with a damask pattern and a rich train, and King Herod in opposition in a scarlet garment with a turban. Herodias hated John the Baptist and wanted him dead. She induced her daughter Salome to wish for his head as a gift for her dance. King Herodes, who made her this promise, fulfilled it with displeasure, and at Herodias' feet is a bowl with the head of John the Baptist.