The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian

c. 1620/1621

Jacob Jordaens

Associated Names
Jacob Jordaens

Artist, Flemish, 1593 - 1678

This drawing depicts figures, a horse, and draped fabric. It is executed with loose, flowing lines and expressive use of ink wash. In the center, there is a rearing horse and several intertwined figures, possibly in motion. The figures are sketchily drawn, emphasizing curves and gestures over details. On the right, additional figures are suggested with draped fabric, hinting at a grand setting or narrative. The style is reminiscent of sketches from the Baroque period.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with brown wash on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Andrew W. Mellon Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 18.8 x 15.3 cm (7 3/8 x 6 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1975.107.1

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Sir Joshua Reynolds (Lugt 2364)

Associated Names

Bibliography

1984

  • Walker, John. National Gallery of Art, Washington. Rev. ed. New York, 1984: 671, no. 1069, color repro.

Inscriptions

lower right on mount: 29; across top verso on mount: Rubens the firststudy / ... his de.. of St. Sebastian / see the p rint / 460

Wikidata ID

Q64579381

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