Nicolas Poussin 1593/94 – 1665

Seven sacraments: baptism

oil on canvas (95 × 121 cm) — 1641-42 Museum National Gallery of Art, Washington DC

This work is linked to Matthew 3:17

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As John pours water over Jesus' head, a voice from Heaven is heard: "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

The dove symbolises the Holy Spirit, which at that moment descends on Jesus.

This painting is from Poussin's series on the Seven Sacraments. Another painting shows the Ordination.