Artwork

The Martyrdom of St. Ursula

The Martyrdom of St. Ursula, by Peter Paul Rubens, oil, 1620
The Martyrdom of St. Ursula, by Peter Paul Rubens, oil, 1620

The Martyrdom of St. Ursula is an oil painting by Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. The Martyrdom of St.

About this work

Overview

The Martyrdom of St. Ursula is a 1620 oil painting by Peter Paul Rubens, a prominent Flemish artist. The work is a representation of the martyrdom of Saint Ursula, executed in Rubens' characteristic Baroque style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a dramatic scene centered on a woman in white being attacked by a spear-wielding figure, surrounded by other figures, some of whom are also being harmed. The scene is a representation of the martyrdom of Saint Ursula, a Christian martyr.

Technique & Style

Rubens employed a Baroque style characterized by dramatic movement and vivid color. The painting's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts of light and dark, draws attention to key elements of the scene and creates a sense of realism.

Context

The work reflects the artistic and religious currents of its time. Rubens' style was influenced by the Counter-Reformation, which promoted dramatic and emotionally charged art to convey Catholic ideals.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Peter Paul Rubens

Artist

Peter Paul Rubens

Sir Peter Paul Rubens ( ROO-bənz; Dutch: ; 28 June 1577 – 30 May 1640) was a Flemish artist and diplomat.