Saint Sebastian before 1487

Editor: This bronze relief, "Saint Sebastian" by Moderno, is quite small. Its classical setting contrasts with the brutal depiction of martyrdom. What can you tell me about its cultural context? Curator: The image of Saint Sebastian, pierced but defiant, became a coded representation of resilience against oppression. How does this relate to the socio-political climate of Renaissance Italy? Editor: So, it was a symbol of resistance? Curator: Precisely. Consider the rise of powerful families and their control. Sebastian's image allowed for subtle critiques of authority. What other elements in the bronze support that interpretation? Editor: The broken columns…maybe they symbolize the crumbling of old power structures? I hadn't thought of it that way. Curator: Exactly. Art invites us to see beyond the surface.