On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P07186
- Author
- El Greco
- Title
- Saint Sebastian's Legs
- Chronology
- 1610-1614
- Technique
- Oil
- Support
- Canvas
- Measures
- 91 cm x 115 cm
- School
- Spanish
- Theme
- Religion
- On display
- Yes
- Procedence
- Collection of Millán Delgado, 1962; acquisition by Adolfo Arenaza, 1972; acquisition by José Osinalde Peñagaricano; acquisition, 1987
San Sebastian was a third-century Roman officer under Emperor Diocletian. The latter ordered his execution for professing the Christian faith. Despite being shot with numerous arrows, San Sebastian didn't die at that time, and continued to defend Christianity. The very low viewpoint presents a highly elongated body and directs the viewer's eyes towards the top, while the background offers a view of the city of Toledo. This work from the artist's final period has very subtle brushstrokes that facilitate the transitions between light and shadow.
This canvas is fragmented (P03002, P07186) but the moment when it was cut and the reasons for such mutilation are unknown.
















