Artwork
Saint Sebastian
Saint Sebastian is an oil painting by the High Renaissance artist Raphael. It dates from 1501 and is held in the collection of the Accademia Carrara.
About this work
Overview
Raphael's "Saint Sebastian" is a tempera painting created circa 1501–1502, during the artist's early career. It is currently housed at the Accademia Carrara in Bergamo, Italy.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Saint Sebastian, a young early Christian martyr, identifiable by his halo and the arrow in his right hand, symbolizing his method of martyrdom.
Technique & Style
Executed in tempera, the work showcases Raphael's High Renaissance style, characterized by a serene figure set against a detailed landscape backdrop of trees, mountains, and a blue sky.
History & Provenance
Originally part of Raphael's early output, the painting has remained in Italy, with a notable loan to the National Gallery in London for an exhibition in 2022.
Context
Depicting a saint in a naturalistic setting reflects the Renaissance humanist approach, blending religious themes with earthly beauty.
Legacy
As one of Raphael's early works, "Saint Sebastian" provides insight into the development of his artistic style, influencing subsequent depictions of the saint in Western art.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Raphael was born Raffaello Sanzio in Urbino on April 6, 1483, the son of Giovanni Santi, a painter and poet attached to the ducal court.
