The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew
1624
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1624
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew is a 1624 ink by Jusepe de Ribera, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This etching depicts the martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew, a dramatic scene of suffering. The saint is shown being flayed alive, his body contorted in agony as his skin is torn from his flesh. The executioner, dressed in simple attire, wields a knife with a look of determination. In the background, a group of onlookers watches the gruesome scene unfold. The etching is rendered in stark black and white, with bold lines and deep shadows that add to the sense of drama and tension. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, drawing the viewer's eye into the heart of the scene. The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew is a powerful example of Baroque art, with its emphasis on emotion and drama. For more on this style, explore the works of the Baroque movement.
