Salome Receiving the Head of Saint John, c. 1607-1609

Engravingexpand_more

Gift of Herschel V. Jones, 1927expand_more  P.11,011

Not on Viewexpand_more

Adam Elsheimer painted his famous nocturnal scenes during his 10 years in Rome. In this engraving by Hendrik Goudt, Elsheimer's torch-lit tableau became a tiny oval charged with solemnity. The only sign of Salome's guilt is the sword skimming her back. Elsheimer may have been inspired to undertake this subject in 1604, the year Pope Clement VIII settled a dispute between Amiens Cathedral in France and San Silvestro in Capite in Rome about which church had the definitive relic of John the Baptist's head-a dispute in which France came out ahead.

Details
Title
Salome Receiving the Head of Saint John
Artist Life
1583-1648
Role
Artist
Accession Number
P.11,011
Catalogue Raisonne
Holl. 4
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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