The artwork titled “St. Sebastian and John the Baptist” was created by Piero della Francesca between 1445 and 1462. The medium used in this Early Renaissance religious painting is a combination of oil, panel, and tempera. Measuring 108 by 90 cm, the artwork is currently housed in the Museo Civico di Sansepolcro in Sansepolcro, Italy.
This religious painting features two prominent figures: St. Sebastian on the left and John the Baptist on the right. St. Sebastian is depicted standing almost naked, his body pierced by arrows, a traditional representation of his martyrdom. His upward gaze and expression reflect a sense of suffering and spiritual resilience. John the Baptist, clothed in a dark garment with a vibrant red drape, is positioned to the right. He holds a staff and points towards a scroll that he carries, inscribed with the Latin words “Ecce Agnus Dei,” meaning “Behold the Lamb of God.” The gold-toned background and the arching architecture framing each figure highlight their sacred status, emphasizing their importance within Christian iconography. The meticulous attention to detail and the balanced composition are characteristic of Piero della Francesca’s mastery in rendering religious themes with profound expression and clarity.
