Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, oil painting on canvas, 17th century
Oil painting on canvas of Flemish provenance (specifically Cologne) depicting the Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian and made in the 17th century. On the right, the group of archers forms the dramatic core of the scene; with their troubled faces, partially shadowed silhouettes and muscles strained in exertion, they contrast sharply with the radiant beauty of the Saint, whose body, defined by a pronounced plasticism and massive bulk, meekly offers itself to martyrdom, even curving into a position parallel to the hostile arches. At the top, an angel comes to the rescue holding in his hands the laurel wreath (symbol of victory through martyrdom) and the palm (symbol of martyrdom and rebirth).
ID: 12351-1680084160-59922