The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian Self-researched

Artist: Domenichino
Location: Baths of Diocletian, Rome
Medium: Oil on canvas
Date: 1629

Biblical Context

Saint Sebastian - The martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, an early Christian saint tied to a post and shot with arrows during the Diocletianic Persecution.

One of the most celebrated paintings in the basilica, originally painted for the altar of St. Sebastian in St. Peter's Basilica. The dramatic composition shows Jesus Christ welcoming the martyr saint while an angel descends bearing the palm and crown of martyrdom. The painting was transferred to Santa Maria degli Angeli in the 18th century.