Saint Sebastian

c. 1470/1480

Attributed to Francesco Francia

Associated Names
Francesco Francia

Artist, Bolognese, c. 1450/1453 - 1517

This is a drawing of a classical statue-like figure. The drawing depicts a nude, standing human figure presented in a frontal view with an intricate headpiece. The legs are crossed as the figure stands upon a textured platform. There are serpentine shapes flanking the figure's torso, adding an element of mystique to the composition. The overall effect emphasizes classical and mythological influences. The use of shading and line work imbues the image with depth, suggesting a three-dimensional form within the constraints of the small, rectangular frame.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    niello print

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet (trimmed to plate mark): 6.5 x 1.5 cm (2 9/16 x 9/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.3.9087

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1941

  • The First Century of Printmaking 1400-1500, The Art Institute of Chicago, 1941, no. 138b.

1943

  • Selections from the Rosenwald Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 1943-1944, p. 6, reproduced on cover.

1965

  • Master Prints from the Rosenwald Collection, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, 1965, no. 7.

1973

  • Prints of the Italian Renaissance, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 1973, no. 15, repro.

Bibliography

1973

  • Levenson et al. 1973, B-2.

Wikidata ID

Q65027053

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