Artwork
The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew
The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew is a paint painting by the Spanish Baroque Tenebrist artist Jusepe de Ribera. It is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew is a 17th-century painting by Jusepe de Ribera, a prominent Spanish artist active in Naples. Created in 1675, it exemplifies the artist's characteristic use of dramatic lighting and intense realism.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the execution of Saint Bartholomew, showing the saint tied to a wooden frame, surrounded by figures who either witness or participate in the act. The scene conveys a sense of anguish and tension, emphasizing the saint's suffering.
Technique & Style
Ribera's tenebrist style is evident in the painting's use of chiaroscuro, which creates a dramatic contrast between light and shadow. This technique draws attention to the central figure and adds depth to the scene, underscoring the intense emotional and religious themes characteristic of Spanish Baroque art.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin, a testament to its enduring significance. As a work by Ribera, it is associated with a generation of Spanish artists known for their innovative and expressive styles.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jusepe de Ribera (Valencian: ; baptised 17 February 1591 – 3 November 1652) was a Spanish painter and printmaker.
