Artwork

Martyrdom of Saint Venantius of Camerino

Martyrdom of Saint Venantius of Camerino, by Scarsellino, oil, 1595
Martyrdom of Saint Venantius of Camerino, by Scarsellino, oil, 1595

Martyrdom of Saint Venantius of Camerino is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Scarsellino. It dates from 1595 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

About this work

Overview

The Martyrdom of Saint Venantius of Camerino is a painting created by Scarsellino around 1595 using oil paint. It is a representative work of the late sixteenth-century Mannerist style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a chaotic scene with multiple figures in various poses, conveying a sense of turmoil. The foreground features a horseman with a red flag and a man being restrained by others, while the background shows a stone structure and trees under a blue sky.

Technique & Style

Scarsellino's use of vibrant colors for clothing against subdued landscape tones creates depth and emotional impact. The artist's composition and color choices demonstrate his skill in conveying a dynamic scene.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Scarsellino, a prominent figure in the School of Ferrara, was known for his landscapes in both sacred and secular works, influencing 17th-century landscape traditions.

Artist & collection

Artist

Scarsellino

Scarsellino or Ippolito Scarsella (1550 (or 1551) – 28 October 1620) was an Italian mid-to-late sixteenth century reformist painter and one of the most important representatives of the School of Ferrara.