The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, with three archers
Anonymous, Italian, Florentine, 15th century Italian
Not on view
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.
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