Peter Paul Rubens
Salome with the Head of John the Baptist
Dimensions
35.1 x 45 cm
Material / Technique
paper/engraving
COURAGE: Rubens Prints III
prints, photographs
Location: R 316 Rubens Cabinet
Artist
Peter Paul Rubens (1577 - 1640)
Engraver
Schelte à Bolswert (1581 - 1659)
About the object
Salome danced so enchantingly for King Herod that he promised to give her anything she wanted. On the advice of her mother, she asked for the death of John the Baptist. Herod granted her wish and had John’s head brought to her. Salome represents an anti-heroine, because she uses beauty and cunning to bring about a cruel injustice.