The Martyrdom of the seven brothers; verso: Sketch of two men wrestling (?) 1826

"The Martyrdom of the Seven Brothers" is a drawing by Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld, completed in 1826. The detailed pen and ink drawing depicts a scene from the Book of Maccabees, in which seven brothers are martyred for refusing to denounce their faith. The artwork, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, captures the dramatic moment of sacrifice and defiance with a striking sense of realism and emotion. Schnorr's meticulous style emphasizes the anguish of the condemned brothers and the despair of their family. The artwork, rendered in meticulous detail, captures the fervor and drama of the biblical narrative, showcasing Schnorr's skill as a draftsman and storyteller. This drawing, a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith, exemplifies the artist's commitment to historical and religious themes.