St. John the Baptist 1515

Leonardo da Vinci painted Saint John the Baptist, likely during the early 1510s, with oil on a walnut panel. This painting represents a significant shift from earlier depictions of John the Baptist. Traditionally, he was shown as an ascetic figure. But Leonardo presents John as sensual and androgynous. This challenges conventional religious imagery. John's enigmatic smile further complicates the picture, suggesting a hidden knowledge or spiritual awakening. Leonardo was working in a time of profound religious and social change. As a figure, St John the Baptist, was associated with Florence. Leonardo’s subversion of traditional symbols, and his use of sensuality, might reflect a broader questioning of established norms within Florentine society. Art historians examine Leonardo’s notebooks and contemporary religious texts to deepen our understanding. By exploring the social and religious context of the time, we see the artist was challenging and reshaping cultural values through art.