Saint Achatius, from "Christ and Saints" 1500 - 1540

"Saint Achatius" is a woodcut by Albrecht Altdorfer, a prominent German artist of the early 16th century. This small-scale artwork, part of a larger series titled "Christ and Saints", depicts Saint Achatius, a 4th-century Christian martyr, in a moment of his martyrdom. Achatius is shown being tortured, his body contorted and pierced with a spear, while the executioner stands above him. The vibrant colors and expressive lines characteristic of Altdorfer's style bring a sense of immediacy and intensity to this scene. The circular frame adds a sense of monumentality and emphasizes the saint's suffering and steadfast faith. This poignant artwork serves as a reminder of the early Christians' enduring faith in the face of persecution.