Saint Sebastian, 1670, Oil on Canvas

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A splendid 17th-century Italian painting. This painting oil on canvas depicts a dramatic scene, a Saint bound and presented to … Read more A splendid 17th-century Italian painting. This painting oil on canvas depicts a dramatic scene, a Saint bound and presented to torture before his imminent martyrdom. The composition is structured on two levels: the mass of executioners at the bottom, and the architectural layout, reminiscent of an ancient Roman city, at the top. The scene is constructed with a strong theatrical sense, with the young, half-naked saint at the center, illuminated by a warm, grazing light that creates a sense of movement, sculpting his muscles.

The Saint's beauty, and especially the military clothing at his feet, likely suggests Saint Sebastian, a Roman soldier who became a martyr for supporting Christians persecuted under Emperor Diocletian. After being discovered, he was tied to a tree (or post) and shot with arrows by his own comrades in arms. According to tradition, he survived this first death sentence, but was arrested again and executed by flagellation.

The style belongs to Central Italian painting of the second half of the 17th century. The modulation of warm tones, the golden luminosity, and the compositional balance reveal the hand of a cultured artist, sensitive to Roman monumentality as well as Bolognese grace. Ideal for prestigious classical or modern settings and perfect for collections of high-period sacred art. The painting has already been restored with re-lining, replacement of the stretcher, and re-coloring in small areas. Overall, in good condition. See less