Artwork
Episode from the martyrdom of St George
Episode from the martyrdom of St George is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Michiel Coxie. It dates from 1571 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.
About this work
Overview
Michiel Coxie the Elder's 'Episode from the martyrdom of St George' is a 1571 oil painting. It is part of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a pivotal moment in the martyrdom of St George, showing the saint kneeling in prayer as a figure prepares to behead him. Onlookers in the background display varied emotional responses.
Technique & Style
The work showcases Coxie's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits strong light-dark contrasts to heighten drama and tension. This stylistic trait is characteristic of the early Baroque movement.
History & Provenance
Coxie, known for his altarpieces and designs for tapestries and stained glass, worked for high-profile patrons like Emperor Charles V and King Philip II of Spain. His work was likely influenced by his connections to these prominent figures.
Artist & collection
Artist
Michiel Coxie the Elder, Michiel Coxcie the Elder or Michiel van Coxcie, Latinised name Coxius (1499 – 3 March 1592), was a Flemish painter of altarpieces and portraits, a draughtsman and a designer of stained-glass windows, tapestries and…
