The Birth and Infancy of St. Stephen (detail) 1465

This detail from Filippo Lippi’s fresco cycle, “The Birth and Infancy of St. Stephen,” depicts the moment when a demon attempts to steal the baby Stephen. Lippi was an Italian painter known for his realistic depictions of figures and dynamic compositions. This scene captures the drama of the moment with vivid colors and expressive figures. It's a powerful image that highlights the dangers that surround even the most innocent of beings. The scene is part of a larger cycle celebrating the life of the Christian martyr, Saint Stephen, and emphasizes the dangers and difficulties of life even for the most devout of figures.