Artwork

Saint Sebastian

Saint Sebastian, by Augustin van den Berghe, oil, 1790
Saint Sebastian, by Augustin van den Berghe, oil, 1790

Saint Sebastian is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Augustin van den Berghe. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Groeningemuseum.

About this work

Overview

The painting 'Saint Sebastian' is an oil on canvas work by Augustin van den Berghe, dated to 1790. It is currently housed at the Groeningemuseum.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts the martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, shown tied to a tree and pierced by arrows, with an angel hovering above him. The scene conveys a moment of intense physical suffering.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to highlight the saint's body against a somber, stormy background. This creates a dramatic effect, emphasizing the tension in Sebastian's figure.

Artist & collection

Groeningemuseum

Museum

Groeningemuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Groeningemuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.