If you do not yet know the story of the martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, this painting is for you!
It depicts the illustrious Roman centurion who, in the 3rd century BC was shot down by arrows on the orders of Emperor Diocletian for having aided Christian prisoners, and for refusing to renounce his Christian faith. In this composition, the painter shows Saint Sebastian still tied to the tree where he was martyred. He was then tended by a Christian widow named Irene.
This painting is Carravagesque in style which means it makes reference to the work of the painter Caravaggio, with its tight framing, dark backgrounds and strong contrasts of light and shadow. The composition highlights Irene’s precise and delicate gestures which she carries out in the light of a paper lantern. The latter gives off a soft golden glow onto their faces, the centurion’s arm, and also onto the open wounds and arrows. The light shines on Irene’s clothes, accessories and her servant, making the golden elements sparkle. The white linen and the blood evoke the Passion of Christ. The light bringing hope of resurrection shines down on the saint’s peaceful-looking face. Saint Sebastian was very popular in the 17th century, notably for his protecting power against the plague. The artist is unknown, but similitudes with other paintings have led to this work being attributed to a painter known as “the Candlelight Master”.