The artwork titled “Martyrdom of St John the Evangelist at Porta Latina” is an oil painting by Charles Le Brun, created within the Baroque art movement. Categorized as a religious painting, the artwork captures the dramatic and poignant scene of martyrdom.
In the artwork, St. John the Evangelist is depicted in the center, in a state of suffering. His body appears limp, held up by two muscular, semi-clad men. Surrounding him are figures in dynamic poses, some resembling Roman soldiers in armor, with a horse partially visible to the left. A putto, or cherubic figure, is depicted above St. John, seemingly descending or hovering, holding palm fronds signifying martyrdom and victory over death. The scene is dark and tumultuous, exuding intense emotional and physical struggle, characteristic of the Baroque emphasis on drama and movement. Rich, deep colors, dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, and dynamic poses testify to Le Brun’s masterful use of Baroque techniques to convey religious fervor and the gravity of St. John’s martyrdom.
