Baptism of Christ, St. John Altarpiece 1502

Giovanni Bellini created this altarpiece of the Baptism of Christ, now in Santa Corona, Italy. Its curved top echoes the heavens, where the Father and the Holy Spirit hover. Below, the symmetrical composition centres on Christ, flanked by John the Baptist and witnesses. Note how Bellini uses light and colour to structure the scene. The warm hues of the foreground contrast with the cool blues of the distant mountains, creating a sense of depth, while the subtle gradations of light on the figures give them a sculptural presence. Bellini's approach to colour reflects a broader shift in Venetian painting toward a more naturalistic representation of light and atmosphere. The altarpiece is not just a depiction of a religious event; it's a carefully constructed meditation on faith and divine presence. The figures are arranged to guide the viewer's eye, drawing us into the spiritual heart of the scene. Through Bellini's formal language, the painting becomes a powerful visual experience.