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Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence

Paolo Gerolamo Piola

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a scene set in an ancient amphitheater. Various classical figures are depicted engaging in different activities. A central character lies on a raised platform, surrounded by expressive figures. Above, winged figures are seen floating on clouds. The arches of the amphitheater are filled with observing figures. The characters are dressed in ancient Roman or Greek attire, and the drawing uses strong contrasts of light and shadow.

Artwork Details

Date
1720/1724
Medium
pen and brown ink with brown wash and black chalk, heightened with white gouache on gray-blue laid paper
Dimensions
14730 × 10445 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original