-
1 of 253523 objects
The Conversion of Cromatius by Saint Sebastian c.1530
Oil on panel | 48.5 x 39.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 403037
-
This is one of a set of three illustrations of the life of St Sebastian (see also CW 6, 403038 and CW 7, 405690), which were acquired by Charles I as by Lucas van Leyden and have recently and hesistantly been attributed to Aertgen van Leyden, an obscure contemporary. A Roman prefect, Cromatius, has converted to Christianity and destroyed all his pagan images; his spiritual guides, St Sebastian and his companion, Polycarp, wonder therefore why his sickness is not cured. It turns out that a single pagan image has been spared and kept in Cromatius's star-gazing chamber. Its destruction (seen taking place in the background) ensures Cromatius's recovery.
Provenance
Purchased by Charles I from Sir James Palmer; recorded in the Cabinet Room at Whitehall in 1639 (no 39); the set of three sold for £101 to Wright on 21 May 1650 from St James's Palace (no 251); recovered at the Restoration and listed in store at Whitehall in 1666 (no 510)
-
Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
-
Medium and techniques
Oil on panel
Measurements
48.5 x 39.0 cm (whole object)
60.4 x 52.6 cm (frame, external)
Category
Object type(s)
Subject(s)
Other number(s)
Alternative title(s)
Saints Sebastian and Polycarp at the deathbed of Cromatius, previously entitled