Carlo Braccesco – Annunciation Triptych; detail of right panel with Saint Stephen and a martyred Carmelite Part 4 Louvre

The composition presents two male figures standing in close proximity against a dark background. The individual on the left is clad in a long, dark blue robe with a contrasting yellow square at the chest. He holds a small red book and a tall green stalk or reed in his hands. His expression appears serene, almost melancholic, directed slightly downward.
The figure to the right wears a brown habit, secured by a cord around his waist, over a white undergarment. A crown of thorns is placed upon his head, and a long, slender blade protrudes from his side. He gazes forward with an expression that conveys both pain and acceptance. The posture suggests a moment immediately following the infliction of injury; he leans slightly forward, as if bracing himself.
The artist’s use of color contributes to the overall mood. The somber tones of the robes contrast with the brighter hues of the book and undergarment, drawing attention to these details. The limited palette reinforces a sense of austerity and solemnity appropriate for a religious subject.
Subtleties in the rendering suggest a narrative beyond the immediate visual. The presence of the crown of thorns and the wound clearly indicate martyrdom. The red book held by the figure on the left may symbolize scripture or faith, perhaps representing the enduring power of belief even in the face of suffering. The proximity of the two figures implies a connection – possibly spiritual solidarity or a symbolic representation of faith supporting endurance. The composition’s verticality emphasizes their stature and reinforces their roles as exemplars of piety and sacrifice.