Russian Icon Depicting John the Baptist

The head of the Baptist lies on a dish, eyes closed, under a thin gold halo.

This icon depicting John the Baptist comes from Russia and dates to the 19th century, painted on a linden panel. Orthodox Christians honor John as the forerunner of Christ and solemnly remember his beheading each year, and icons of the severed head served that devotion. Long dark hair and beard spread across the plate. Red drips run over its rim. An inscription in gold crosses the top, and the olive ground is streaked and clouded. It is 12 inches wide and 14 high.

Nothing here looks away, and neither did the painter.