The Head of John the Baptist

Image credit: Worcester Porcelain Museum

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King Herod had imprisoned Saint John because he disagreed with Herod marrying his brother’s wife, Herodias. On Herod’s birthday Herodias’ daughter Salome danced for the King and he promised to give her anything she desired. Salome asked for the head of John the Baptist to be brought to her on a platter. The amateur artist, Dr John Wall illustrates the bible story in the grand manner of historical painting. He shows the mother and daughter holding the platter between them, alluding to their conspiracy to have John executed.

Worcester Porcelain Museum

Worcester

Title

The Head of John the Baptist

Date

c.1760

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 100 x W 120 cm (E)

Accession number

5133

Acquisition method

gift from the collection of Charles William Dyson Perrins

Work type

Painting

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Normally on display at

Worcester Porcelain Museum

Severn Street, Worcester, Worcestershire WR1 2ND England

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