Vier Engel um das abgeschlagene Haupt Johannes' des Täufers versammelt 

This drawing by Anthony van Dyck, now at the Städel Museum, depicts the severed head of John the Baptist surrounded by four angels. The head on a platter is a powerful symbol, evoking themes of martyrdom, sacrifice, and the triumph of faith over earthly power. Throughout history, we see variations of this motif. Salome bearing the head of John appears in numerous Renaissance paintings, each reflecting a blend of horror and fascination. This imagery descends from ancient symbols of sacrifice and retribution, echoing in myths like that of Perseus and Medusa. The averted gazes and sorrowful expressions of the angels convey a deep emotional response, tapping into our collective memory of loss and injustice. This image is not just a depiction of a biblical event; it is a potent reminder of humanity's capacity for both cruelty and compassion, continually resurfacing in our cultural consciousness.