Bowdoin College Museum of Art | - Salome with the Head of John the Baptist

Preview image of work. oil on canvas, Salome with the Head of John the Baptist 145

1813.3

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Salome with the Head of John the Baptist

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Artist

Guido Reni (1575 - 1642) [after? Guido Reni];

Title

Salome with the Head of John the Baptist

Creation Date

1620-1630

Century

mid-17th century

Dimensions

23 in. x 30 in. (58.42 cm. x 76.2 cm.)

Object Type

painting

Creation Place

Europe, Italy

Medium and Support

oil on canvas

Credit Line

Bequest of the Honorable James Bowdoin III

Copyright

Public Domain

Accession Number

1813.3

Guido Reni was an acclaimed painter, known best for his interpretations of religious and mythological scenes. Here he depicts the Biblical story of the beheading of John the Baptist: Salome, the daughter of Herodias, carries his severed head on a charger. A popular subject in Christian art, Salome became especially popular during the Renaissance. Depictions of her were used to demonstrate the role of lascivious women in seducing men from the path of salvation. The painting reminded viewers of human weakness and temptation, and their obligation to live righteously. As if to remind viewers of the story’s relevance to modern times, Reni renders Salome’s dress in contemporary fashion. Emblazoned with pearls and gemstones, it signifies her wealth and status. James Bowdoin III collected this work, perhaps because it reflected his own moralistic values and those of the period. The painting came to Bowdoin College as part of his 1811 bequest.

Keywords: religious visual works