Artwork
Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence
Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Italian 16th Century. It dates from 1564 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence is a 16th-century Italian drawing created by Antonio Campi in 1581, depicting the torture of Saint Lawrence on a flaming grill, observed by Roman soldiers and judges.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing illustrates the intense moment of Saint Lawrence's martyrdom, conveying the brutality of his torture through the contrast between his strained, heat-taut muscles and the indifferent gestures of the observing authorities.
Technique & Style
Executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash over faint red chalk underdrawings, the work features sharp lines and dense, tiny cross-hatched background textures, which enhance the immediacy and ferocity of the flames.
History & Provenance
Created during the Mannerist period, this drawing is characteristic of Campi's style during this time. Its current location is not specified in the provided information, though comparisons with the artist's other works can be made at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Context
The piece reflects the religious and artistic themes prevalent in 16th-century Italy, where depictions of martyrdom served both devotional and narrative purposes, often emphasizing dramatic suffering.
Artist & collection
Artist
A 16th-century Italian sculptor left us small bronze works in dark brown and gold.
