The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Caravaggio is one of his most intense and celebrated masterpieces, painted in 1608. It portrays the grim, dramatic scene of Saint John's execution, set in a dark prison. This monumental work, measuring approximately 12 feet by 17 feet, is displayed in the Oratory of St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, where Caravaggio completed it during his brief and turbulent stay.

This painting is known for its raw realism, emotional intensity, and Caravaggio’s innovative use of light and shadow (tenebrism). The executioner stands over Saint John’s body, completing the act of decapitation as a distressed figure holds a platter to receive his head. Figures surrounding the scene display a range of emotions, from horror to indifference, emphasizing the grim reality of the execution.

In addition to the technical mastery and emotive power, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist holds a unique place in Caravaggio's work as it’s his only signed painting. His signature, subtly written in the spilled blood on the ground, symbolizes his identification with the suffering and martyrdom of the saint, perhaps reflecting his personal struggles and dark experiences.

Caravaggio’s depiction of Saint John's beheading is notable for its composition and use of stark contrasts, reinforcing the tragedy while capturing the narrative’s spiritual and human dimensions. It remains an enduring symbol of Baroque artistry and Caravaggio’s unique perspective on humanity and faith.

Fun fact:
This painting was linked to him murdering a guy after he lost an argument.