The Martyrdom of Saint Philip

Stefano Della Bella

1637

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Religious

About this work

This sketch shows a group of people in a rough, hurried scene. One man is being dragged by ropes tied to a cross-like frame, while others watch or hold weapons. The lines are quick and shaky, like the artist was working fast. The drawing uses only brown ink, with no color—just light and dark lines to show shapes. The paper has a slightly yellowed edge, like it’s been around for a while. If you like this style, look up Baroque next.