Artwork

Martyrdom of Saint Ursula and her companions

Martyrdom of Saint Ursula and her companions, by Unknown, unspecified, 1475
Martyrdom of Saint Ursula and her companions, by Unknown, unspecified, 1475

Martyrdom of Saint Ursula and her companions is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1475 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

The painting 'Martyrdom of Saint Ursula and her companions' depicts a chaotic and densely populated scene, with figures in red and white clothing amidst turmoil. A haloed woman, likely Saint Ursula, stands centrally, gesturing upwards.

Subject & Meaning

The scene represents the martyrdom of Saint Ursula and her companions. The narrative is drawn from the legend of Saint Ursula, a Christian martyr, whose story is associated with violence and persecution.

Technique & Style

The artist has employed a detailed and busy composition, incorporating numerous small figures and background elements such as a castle and ships on a river, to convey the intensity of the scene.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known