Artwork

The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen

The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen, by Juan de Juanes, oil, 1555
The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen, by Juan de Juanes, oil, 1555

The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Juan de Juanes. It dates from 1555 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen is a 1555 oil painting by Juan de Juanes, a prominent artist of the Valencian school during the Spanish Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the stoning of Saint Stephen, with the saint kneeling in prayer as others throw stones. A figure in a red robe is prominent, holding a large stone above his head, while a cityscape and distant mountains form the background.

Technique & Style

The work showcases the artist's use of chiaroscuro to create depth and emotion, with a muted color palette dominated by shades of brown, gray, and blue.

History & Provenance

The painting is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado, exemplifying the artist's contribution to the Mannerist movement.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Juan de Juanes

Artist

Juan de Juanes

Vicente Juan Masip (also known as Joan de Joanes) (1507 – 1579) was a Spanish painter of the Renaissance period.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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