Saint Sebastian
Summary
Sebastian was an early Christian saint and martyr killed during the Diocletianic Persecution. According to tradition, he was tied to a post and shot with arrows, but survived and was nursed back to health by Irene of Rome. He then confronted Emperor Diocletian about his persecution of Christians and was clubbed to death. The first arrow scene became one of the most popular subjects in Renaissance and Baroque art.
Biblical Reference
Book(s): Hagiographic tradition (Acts of the Martyrs)
Chapters/Verses: N/A
Artworks Depicting This Story
The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian Self-researched
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.