St. Stephen 

Maarten de Vos painted "St. Stephen" during a time of religious and political turbulence in Europe. The painting depicts Stephen, a Christian martyr, his serene expression suggesting a narrative of devotion and sacrifice, which, in the context of the 16th century, speaks to the powerful hold of religious identity amidst conflict. The martyr's robes and the stones he carries as emblems of his martyrdom are rendered in muted tones, inviting contemplation on the themes of faith, suffering, and redemption. De Vos was a prominent figure in Antwerp, a city that experienced significant religious upheaval during the Reformation. His work reflects a negotiation between traditional religious iconography and the changing perspectives of his time. This portrayal captures the tension between institutional power and individual belief. The emotionality of the saint's quiet stance serves as a potent reminder of the human cost of ideological conflict.