The beheading of St John the Baptist

The beheading of St John the Baptist by Rembrandt van Rijn, created in 1631, is an arresting early example of the artist's powerful engagement with dramatic biblical history. Executed on paper, this work is classified as a print, demonstrating Rijn's developing mastery of intaglio techniques during the peak of the Dutch Golden Age. The subject, drawn from the Gospel accounts, illustrates the moment preceding the execution of the prophet, a scene often portrayed in 17th-century Dutch art for its moral and dramatic potential.

This specific piece captures a tense, reserved cruelty, characteristic of Rijn’s style during this period, which often preferred focused intensity over expansive spectacle. The technical control required to achieve such depth and tonal variation through fine lines underscores why Rijn is considered one of history’s greatest printmakers. He manipulates light and shadow expertly, isolating the essential figures and the brutal geometry of the setting.

The work is housed within the esteemed collection of the Rijksmuseum, contributing to a substantial archive of 17th-century Dutch narrative art. Its status as an influential print from the early career of the master painter ensures its enduring historical significance. Due to its cultural importance and age, high-resolution prints of The beheading of St John the Baptist are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, allowing scholars and art enthusiasts worldwide to study this pivotal moment in Rijn's oeuvre and the evolution of Dutch graphic arts.