On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P07186
- Author
- El Greco (Spanish)
- Title
- Saint Sebastian's Legs
- Chronology
- 1610-1614
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 91 cm x 115 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COMPRA
- Procedence
- 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 but the
moment when it was cut and the
reasons for such mutilation are
unknown.
Location on the map
