The artwork, known as “John the Baptist – Angel of the Desert,” was executed by Orthodox Icons between circa 1575 and circa 1600. It falls under the genre of iconography, representing the Cretan school of icon painting within the broader art movement. This piece, which forms part of a series dedicated to saints, is currently located at the Pushkin Museum in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork displays a highly stylized depiction of John the Baptist. He is portrayed as an angelic figure with wings, donning simple yet symbolic attire reflective of his ascetic lifestyle. The scene is rendered with a rich palette typical of Cretan iconography, emphasizing gold and burnt orangish-brown hues, which imbue the image with a sense of divine transcendence. Detailed draperies and angular compositions highlight the intricate style and delicate craftsmanship that characterize this art movement. John’s solemn expression and the presence of a scroll bearing holy inscriptions further underscore the theological depth and spiritual significance of the icon. At the bottom right, John’s severed head placed in a dish signifies his martyrdom, lending the piece an aura of solemn reflection and reverence.