Spanish school; XVII century. "The beheading of Saint John the Baptist." Oil on canvas.

Spanish school; 17th century.
"Caesar weeping before Pompey's head".
Oil on canvas. It has repainting and restorations.
It has a 19th century frame with faults.
Measures: 49 x 77 cm; 65 x 92 cm (frame).
A landscape format work that represents the historical moment in which Caesar weeps for the death of Pompey despite having declared themselves enemies. Pompey sailed from Cyprus with a small fleet and on 28 September 48 BC arrived at Pelusium in Egypt, where Ptolemy was engaged in a bitter civil war with his co-ruler and elder sister, Cleopatra VII. When he disembarked to receive an official delegation, Pompey was assassinated by Lucius Septimius, a Roman officer and former colleague who served in the Egyptian army. His body was cremated by two servants, while his head was preserved as evidence

In the image the author has sought to capture all the opulence of Herod's court by depicting a large interior with Solomonic columns and a golden throne. This magnificence is also evident in the figures, who are depicted in rich, brightly coloured garments. The presence of a young man stands out not only because of his age, but also because of the colour of his skin. This representation is a characteristic sign of artists who sought to portray exotic settings.