Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence 1720 - 1724

Paolo Gerolamo Piola's "Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence" (1720-1724) is a detailed drawing depicting the moment of the saint's death. The scene is set within a Roman arena, with a crowd of onlookers watching as Lawrence is placed on a gridiron. Piola's use of brown ink creates a sense of drama and tension, highlighting the figures in a powerful display of baroque artistic style. The depiction of angels above, bearing a crown of martyrdom, emphasizes the saint's sacrifice and eventual ascension to heaven. This drawing, executed just four years before the artist's death, exemplifies Piola's mastery of expressive linework and his deep understanding of religious iconography.