Artwork

The Stoning of Saint Stephen

The Stoning of Saint Stephen, by Hans Freyberger, ink, 1610
The Stoning of Saint Stephen, by Hans Freyberger, ink, 1610

The Stoning of Saint Stephen is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Hans Freyberger. It dates from 1610 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Stoning of Saint Stephen is a drawing created by Hans Freyberger around 1610, depicting a pivotal moment in Christian martyrdom.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows Saint Stephen being stoned to death, surrounded by a chaotic crowd. He kneels with outstretched arms, gazing upwards, as people of various sizes throw rocks at him.

Technique & Style

Executed in pen, ink, and watercolor on laid paper, the work features loose, expressive lines and muted colors, predominantly browns and grays, with touches of pink and blue. The textured paper adds to the aged appearance of the drawing.

Artist & collection

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