Saint John, writing, seated on an Eagle
Classification
religion
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors and from Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund
Accession Number
1938-88-8671
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Behold *Saint John, Writing, Seated on an Eagle*, a captivating religious work by Giulio Romano, the renowned Italian artist (1499–1546). Created in 1518, when Romano was just 19 and still in the vibrant workshop of his mentor Raphael in Rome, this piece depicts Saint John the Evangelist—the author of the Gospel and Book of Revelation—perched dynamically on his traditional symbol, the eagle. The eagle represents divine inspiration and heightened vision, elevating the saint as he pens sacred texts. As a key figure bridging the High Renaissance and emerging Mannerism, Romano infused his early w...