John the Baptist is often depicted with a lamb - as here. The animal symbolizes the sacrifice of the saint as an innocent victim of the wickedness of mankind (he was beheaded for denouncing the incestuous marriage of King Herod). Very little is known about Bosch. He signed only seven of his works, and dated even less. As such, there are only 25 remaining paintings that are sure to be his.
Saint John the Baptist in the Wilderness
oil on panel • 49 x 40,5 cm
-
Hieronymus Bosch