The artwork “St. John the Evangelist” is a significant work by the renowned artist El Greco, dating back to around 1604. It is executed in oil on canvas, with dimensions of 90 by 77 centimeters, and represents the Mannerism movement, specifically from the Late Renaissance period. This religious painting is part of the collection at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain, where it continues to be on display.
The painting holds a somber yet intense atmosphere, depicting St. John the Evangelist with a penetrating gaze that conveys a deep spiritual fervor. He is portrayed with delicate, almost ethereal facial features, which is characteristic of El Greco’s unique style, accentuating the saint’s otherworldly connection. The saint’s iconic attribute, the chalice, is present, from which a serpent emerges—a reference to the legend of St. John being challenged to drink poison. The flowing drapery envelops his figure, with a stark contrast between the warm red of his outer cloak and the cool green of his tunic. The influence of Mannerism is evident in the elongated proportions and the dramatic play of light and dark, emphasizing the emotional intensity and the dynamic expressiveness of the figure. El Greco’s mastery in capturing the mysticism of religious figures is manifested in the artwork, making it an exemplary piece that showcases the artist’s distinctive approach to composition and color during Spain’s Golden Age.
