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Reference number
P03002
Author
El Greco (Spanish)
Title
Saint Sebastian
Chronology
1610 - 1614
Technique
Support
Measures
115 cm x 85 cm
School
Theme
Shown
Yes
Entrance
DONACION
Procedence
Donation by the Countess of Mora, Marquise of Casa Riera, 1960

This Roman official serving the third-century emperor, Diocletian, was condemned by the latter to be killed because of his Christian faith. Although he was shot with multiple arrows, Saint Sebastian did not die at that time and continued to defend Christianity. Here, his much-elongated body is seen from a very low viewpoint. He turns his eyes toward the heavens. In the background, the artist offers a view of the city of Toledo. This work from the artist's final period has some very subtle brushstrokes that permit the transitions from light to shadow.

This work has been cut down, but the reasons and dates of that mutilation are unknown.

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