Artwork
Rem-Altar: Martyrium des hl. Sebastian (Rückseite: Hl. Lukas)
Rem-Altar: Martyrium des hl. Sebastian (Rückseite: Hl. Lukas) is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Quinten Metsys. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, created by Quentin Matsys in 1518, is a double-sided work featuring the martyrdom of Saint Sebastian on one side and Saint Luke on the other. It exemplifies the artistic style of the northern Renaissance and is now held in the Alte Pinakothek.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Sebastian tied to a tree, his arms raised, with visible wounds on his torso. A crowd observes from a distance, set against a backdrop of a town and landscape. The scene is a representation of the saint's martyrdom, a common subject in Early Netherlandish art.
Technique & Style
The use of chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, emphasizes the figure of Saint Sebastian, making him stand out against the surrounding crowd and background. The artist's skillful handling of light creates a sense of volume and depth in the composition.
History & Provenance
Quentin Matsys, a Flemish painter with an initial background as an ironsmith, was active in Antwerp for over two decades and is considered the founder of the Antwerp school of painting. This work is one of many he produced with moralizing themes during his career.
Artist & collection
Artist
Quentin Matsys (UK: MAT-sysse, US: MAHT-sysse; also Massys or Metsys; Flemish: Quinten Matsijs ; 1466–1530) was a Flemish painter in the Early Netherlandish tradition.
The Good Thief (Saint Dismas)
Kaisheimer Altar: Kreuztragung Christi
Christ as Man of Sorows
Christ with Crown of Thorns (Ecce Homo)
São Vicente na Cruz em Aspa
Kaisheimer Altar: Geißelung Christi
Deposition
The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian
Crucifixion of Christ
The martyrdom of Saint Sebastian
Descent of the Cross
Teile eines Altares: Martyrium des hl. Sebastian