Artwork
Episode from the martyrdom of St George
Episode from the martyrdom of St George is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Michiel Coxie. It dates from 1571 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.
About this work
Overview
Episode from the martyrdom of St George is a 1571 oil painting by Michiel Coxie the Elder, a Flemish artist renowned for altarpieces and portraits. The work is characterized by its early Baroque Italian style and religious theme, currently housed in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a dramatic, agonized moment from the martyrdom of St George, showing the saint's contorted body being forcefully lifted by multiple figures amidst a watching crowd. The scene conveys intense physical and emotional distress.
Technique & Style
Coxie employed vivid oil colors and bold brushstrokes to heighten drama and tension. The use of chiaroscuro creates pronounced shadows and highlights, focusing viewer attention on the central, suffering figure.
History & Provenance
Created in 1571, the painting is part of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp's collection. Coxie, who served as court painter to Emperor Charles V and King Philip II of Spain, was often likened to Raphael by contemporaries.
Artist & collection
Artist
Michiel Coxie the Elder, Michiel Coxcie the Elder or Michiel van Coxcie, Latinised name Coxius (1499 – 3 March 1592), was a Flemish painter of altarpieces and portraits, a draughtsman and a designer of stained-glass windows, tapestries and…
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