The Stoning of Saint Stephen 1540 - 1560

"The Stoning of Saint Stephen", a 16th-century etching by Domenico del Barbiere, depicts the biblical story of Saint Stephen's martyrdom. The composition is divided into two sections, with the upper half showing God and angels in a celestial setting, and the lower half portraying Stephen being stoned by a crowd. The detail and emotional intensity of the scene are characteristic of the Renaissance style. The dramatic use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism, while the expressive figures convey the anguish and suffering of the event. This artwork is a powerful example of the use of art to illustrate religious stories and to evoke strong emotional responses from viewers.