Saint Sebastian tied to tree pierced with arrows, from "Piccoli Santi" (Small Saints) 1495 - 1532

Marcantonio Raimondi created this engraving of Saint Sebastian in the early 16th century, a period marked by religious fervor and artistic innovation in Europe. Here, Sebastian is tied to a tree, his body pierced by arrows, yet there is a serene quality in his upward gaze. In the cultural context of the Renaissance, the figure of Saint Sebastian became an important symbol, particularly for the queer community. His suffering was not only seen as a testament to faith, but also an expression of desire and homoerotic tension. This representation offered a counternarrative to traditional notions of masculinity and sainthood. Consider how Raimondi's delicate lines capture both the physical torment and the spiritual transcendence of Saint Sebastian. This engraving reflects a complex interplay of religious devotion, cultural identity, and personal expression.