Saint Lawrence Standing and Holding the Grill, Instrument of His Martyrdom 1710 - 1720

Editor: This is "Saint Lawrence Standing and Holding the Grill, Instrument of His Martyrdom," a drawing in ink dating back to around 1710-1720 by Marcantonio Franceschini, currently held at the Met. It depicts the saint with a rather…unsettling smile. I'm intrigued, and maybe a little disturbed, by how serene he appears given the instrument next to him. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, first off, that unsettling smile is very interesting. It indicates acceptance and the conviction of faith over agonizing death, carrying strong psychological weight. And notice how the grill is presented. Editor: The grill is front and center, almost like a co-subject in the portrait, definitely making it seem more dignified than horrific. Curator: Precisely. The placement transforms it from an instrument of torture to a symbol of unwavering belief, mirroring Saint Lawrence's own spiritual resolve. He isn’t just holding it; he’s presenting it, almost reverently. Have you ever considered how objects within religious art accrue meaning over time? Editor: That's a fascinating point. It goes beyond just visual representation, and delves into the evolution of a symbol’s meaning across generations. Is there anything else that stands out to you? Curator: Note also the cherubs looking down upon the Saint, who represent God's recognition. Consider how, even amidst profound suffering, the Saint finds solace and validation through his faith, mirroring collective aspirations for spiritual redemption. These symbols of the Christian faith contribute layers to the meaning of the whole drawing. Editor: This has completely shifted my perspective. The artwork is not solely about brutal martyrdom; it is more about unwavering devotion in the face of adversity. Thank you! Curator: And thank you. Now I look at it a little differently as well.