SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST ALTARPIECE

STYLE 

The reliefs on the altarpiece's main body show compositions comprising numerous figures skilfully distributed over inclined slopes that limit any reference to landscapes which, with the sole exception of the episode of the Baptism, are reduced to illustrating the monumental doors in the episode of the Arrest and Martyrdom of the Saint and a few minor details of furniture in order to evoke domestic interiors.

Figures are short, elegantly posed and well characterised. Male faces have grim-looking expressions, high cheekbones, short noses and wide jawbones occasionally hidden under long braided beards. The image of the saint after whom the altarpiece is named stands out particularly with his vital, more natural posture. Faces of the women are rounder with smooth brows and peaceful expressions.

As far as the figures on the plinth are concerned, all spatial references have been completely omitted, focusing instead on slimmer characters and repetitive characterisations and the use of longish faces with sad expressions. The face of the Virgin stands out from all the others.