Saint John the Baptist: Right Pinnacle Panel

This right pinnacle panel depicting Saint John the Baptist, by Giovanni da Milano and dating to around 1365, formed the upper right element of a dismembered altarpiece now distributed across the National Gallery, London. The Baptist, as precursor of Christ and patron of Florence's Baptistery, held paramount importance in Florentine devotional programs. Giovanni's Lombard background brought a distinctive softness and refinement to the Florentine artistic milieu, admired by patrons seeking an alternative to the harder local manner.

Painted in egg tempera on a pointed gold-ground panel, the half-length Baptist displays Giovanni da Milano's characteristic delicate modeling, luminous complexion, and subtle emotional expression that distinguish his Lombard-trained hand from native Florentine painters.