The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, with three archers

Anonymous, Italian, Florentine, 15th century

ca. 1480–90 · Engraving · Drawings and Prints

This intriguing engraving, known only through this impression, has been associated with the Florentine school, in part due to its technique, midway between the fine and broad manners, and in part because its treatment of the subject recalls a painting by the Florentine artist Antonio Pollaiuolo. The words engraved on either side of the saint indicate that the print served a specific purpose: since Saint Sebastian's torments were associated with the arrows of pestilence, carrying his image with its incised prayer was intended to ward off plague.

Artist

Anonymous, Italian, Florentine, 15th century

Date

ca. 1480–90

Medium

Engraving

Department

Drawings and Prints

Credit line

Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1928