Icon - John the Baptist - Wood

Icon of the Martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist (Decapitation)

Identification of the figures

San Juan Bautista
It appears in the center, leaning forward, already beheaded (a detail of theological significance), with a golden halo. His body is still depicted in a lively stance, emphasizing that martyrdom is spiritual victory and not defeat.

The executioner
Standing behind Juan, raising the sword, the moment immediately after the strike. He wears a red tunic, a color associated with violence and sin.

Salomé
To the right, standing in a portico with hands folded. He is the one who, after his dance, asked for the head of the Baptist.

Herodias
In some icons, they are clearly identified; here, their presence is suggested by palatial architecture and by the female figure associated with court power.

Herod Antipas
It is not always explicitly represented; its authority is symbolized by the palatial architectural framework.

Supreme celestial figure
At the top, within a mandorla of clouds, God the Father or Christ Emmanuel appears, blessing from heaven, indicating that the sacrifice of the Baptist is accepted by God.

Theological reading

Juan is already beheaded while the executioner still raises the sword.
It is not a 'realistic' narrative scene, but a theological one. The icon shows that bodily death does not affect the saint's eternal life.

Sky–Earth Contrast
The lower scene shows violence and injustice; above, divine glory, establishing spiritual victory.

Symbolic architecture

The palace represents the corrupt power of the world, against the austere prophet who dies for the truth.

Tradition: Russian or Slavic Orthodox icon

Technique: egg temple on a board.

Colors: ochres, dark greens, and deep reds.

Typical geometric decorative frame

Probable chronology: 18th and 19th centuries.