Portrait of St Sebastian with an Arrow * Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528)

The composition presents a male figure seated at a table, rendered in a three-quarter pose that directs attention towards his face and upper body. He is positioned against a landscape backdrop visible through what appears to be a draped curtain on the right side of the frame. The setting suggests an interior space, though the expansive view beyond hints at a connection with the natural world.
The figure’s expression is one of quiet composure, bordering on melancholy. His gaze is directed outward, seemingly past the viewer, lending him an air of introspection or perhaps resignation. A cascade of reddish-brown hair frames his face, and the skin tone exhibits a delicate pinkish hue characteristic of Renaissance portraiture. He wears a rich crimson garment adorned with elaborate sleeves featuring intricate patterns, layered beneath a luxurious fur collar that emphasizes his status and wealth. His left hand rests upon a table surface, while the right holds what appears to be a stylus or pen, suggesting an intellectual or artistic pursuit.
The landscape behind him is rendered in muted tones of blue and green, depicting distant mountains and a body of water. The sky is overcast, contributing to the overall somber mood. A small patch of vegetation occupies the lower portion of the background, adding depth to the scene.
Subtleties within the painting suggest deeper meanings beyond a simple portrait. The stylus in his hand could symbolize learning, creativity, or perhaps even martyrdom – a tool used for recording suffering or conveying a message despite adversity. The fur collar and elaborate clothing denote privilege and status, which contrasts with the implied vulnerability suggested by his expression and posture. The curtained backdrop creates a sense of theatricality, as if the figure is being presented to the viewer.
The overall effect is one of restrained emotion and quiet dignity. While the subject’s identity remains ambiguous, the combination of physical attributes, attire, and symbolic elements evokes themes of suffering, resilience, and perhaps even spiritual devotion. The muted color palette and carefully considered composition contribute to a sense of solemnity and introspection.