The Order of Saint John was a Catholic institution with a very strong political disposition. The members belonged to the noblest, wealthiest families of Europe. The title of "knight" was a mark of nobility which, when conferred, brought to the individual many legal privileges, as well as eventual financial benefits and significantly attractive pensions. These advantages, coupled with refined taste, prosperous economic foundation and strong ties with the Papal authorities, led to a very vigorous relationship between the Order and the most notable artistic expression of the times. The accession of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt in 1601 heralded a period of creative opulence for the island, which found its culmination with the arrival of Caravaggio and Mattia Preti.
The two Italian artists were both given the Knighthood of the Magisterial Obedience. However Caravaggio, being found guilty of homicide, was later expelled from the Order. One of Caravaggio's most impressive works can be found at St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta. This sacred work depicts the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of the Order. It is probable that Caravaggio executed this painting in payment for the 'passagio', the one-year obligatory noviciate a person had to spend prior to his attainment of knighthood.
The semi-circular composition - in a sweep of motion yet simultaneously frozen in time - converges on the executioner who is in the act of severing the Baptist's head. He is assisted by the jailer and a young girl holding a plate in readiness. A very dramatic atmosphere is evoked, highlighted by the poignant presence of an old woman.
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