Martelaarschap van de H. Sebastiaan 1557 - 1564

Bartholomeus Spranger's "Martelaarschap van de H. Sebastiaan" (Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian) is a 16th-century etching that portrays the saint tied to a tree, a classic depiction of his martyrdom. Created between 1557 and 1564, the artwork's detailed lines and crosshatching technique create a powerful image of suffering, highlighting Sebastian's physical torment. The composition emphasizes the contrast between the saint's vulnerable figure and the rigid, stoic tree, further enhancing the sense of drama. The etching's small dimensions (206mm x 91mm) suggest an intimate and personal approach to the subject matter, offering a detailed glimpse into the intense emotions and physical pain of the saint's martyrdom.