Martyrdom of St. Sebastian 1516

Albrecht Altdorfer’s “Martyrdom of St. Sebastian” (1516) depicts the Christian saint being pierced with arrows by Roman soldiers. The painting is a masterful example of the artist’s skill in landscape and architectural details, evident in the depiction of a bridge and a distant cityscape. Altdorfer’s dramatic portrayal of the scene showcases the pain and suffering endured by St. Sebastian, while the bustling background hints at the cruelty and indifference of those responsible for his torture.