The martyrdom of Bartholomew the Apostle 1856

This dramatic painting by Francesco Hayez depicts the martyrdom of Bartholomew the Apostle, a scene from the New Testament. Created in 1856, the artwork illustrates Bartholomew being flayed alive, with angels appearing above him in the sky. The scene is rendered with realistic detail and a sense of pathos, drawing the viewer into the event's brutality. Hayez's use of light and shadow enhances the sense of tragedy and spirituality in this poignant representation of a key figure in Christian history.