The artwork, titled “John the Baptist – Angel of the Desert,” was created by the artist known as “Orthodox Icons” between circa 1550 and 1600. Rendered in tempera on wood with gold accents, it is a product of the Cretan school of icon painting, specifically within the Late Byzantine or Palaeologan Renaissance period (circa 1261–1453). This icon, belonging to the “Saints” series, is currently housed in the Pushkin Museum in Moscow, Russia.
In the artwork, Saint John the Baptist is depicted with angelic wings, emphasizing his spiritual purity and role as a divine messenger. His figure is portrayed with a solemn countenance, holding a scroll that likely contains a message of repentance. The tempera medium imparts a vivid yet religiously austere palette, with the background resplendent in gold that heightens the sense of sanctity. At the corner of the image lies a separate bowl that holds the severed head of John the Baptist, referencing his martyrdom. The overall composition, characterized by its intricate detailing and adherence to the stylistic norms of Byzantine icons, serves to evoke both reverence and contemplation.