Artwork
Drawing
Drawing is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1524 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The image focuses on the saint as its sole subject, adhering to the conventions of devotional imagery from the early sixteenth century.
This religious work depicts Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr frequently represented in art history. The image focuses on the saint as its sole subject, adhering to the conventions of devotional imagery from the early sixteenth century. As a piece owned by Robert Lehman and held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the drawing serves as an example of the enduring iconography surrounding Sebastian's suffering and faith.
The work functions as a representation of religious devotion, characteristic of the output associated with the follower of Sodoma.
History & Provenance
The drawing, dated 1524, portrays Saint Sebastian and belongs to the religious genre. Its creation is attributed to a follower of Sodoma (Giovanni Antonio Bazzi). The work’s inception is recorded as 1524-01-01, placing its production in the early sixteenth century.
It was originally part of the collection of Robert Lehman, who later donated it to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is presently housed. No documentary evidence of a specific commission survives, so its original purpose remains that of a devotional study.
Legacy
Created in 1524, this drawing portrays Saint Sebastian and is attributed to a follower of Sodoma, Giovanni Antonio Bazzi. The composition reflects the religious genre prevalent in early sixteenth‑century Italian art.
The sheet entered the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and was later held by Robert Lehman, reinforcing its status as a key example of the period’s draftsmanship. Its inclusion in a major public institution has made it a frequent point of reference in studies of early religious drawing.
Overview
This painting, titled "Drawing," presents a solitary nude male figure, distinguished by long hair and a halo. The subject is depicted standing with arms bound behind his back, his body pierced by arrows. Despite these signs of physical suffering, the artwork conveys a profound sense of serenity and acceptance.
The figure's central placement against a subdued background draws the viewer's focus, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual depth of the scene.
Technique & Style
The artist employs a muted background palette, which serves to isolate and emphasize the central figure. This compositional choice directs the viewer's attention to the detailed rendering of the body and its symbolic wounds. The figure's contrapposto pose lends a classical balance to the composition, while the overall subdued color scheme and the figure's calm demeanor contribute to the painting's pervasive mood of quiet endurance and spiritual peace.
Artist & collection
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