Artwork
The Stoning of St. Stephen
The Stoning of St. Stephen is a print by James Basire. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Stoning of St.
About this work
Overview
The Stoning of St. Stephen is a print depicting a biblical scene. It shows a chaotic moment of violence against a kneeling figure, with onlookers and angels in the background.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates the martyrdom of Saint Stephen, a biblical figure stoned to death for his faith. The scene conveys a sense of turmoil and conflict, with the victim reaching out to one of his attackers.
Technique & Style
The print is characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, achieved through a technique that emphasizes chiaroscuro. It is based on a composition by Raphael, adapted for print.
History & Provenance
The print was created by James Basire the younger, likely in the late 18th or early 19th century. The exact date is not certain, but it is attributed to this period.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
James Basire etched scenes with fine lines in the late 1700s to early 1800s. He made prints like “The Stoning of St. Stephen,” a dramatic religious scene in black ink on paper, and “Part of the quadrangle of Exeter…
