Saint Stephen c. 1730s - 1740s

Giovanni Battista Piazzetta's "Saint Stephen," an undated drawing, explores themes of religious devotion and martyrdom. Made in 18th-century Venice, this artwork reflects the cultural and religious fervor of the time. Stephen was the first Christian martyr, and depictions of him often served as a reminder of faith and sacrifice. Piazzetta's use of light and shadow adds to the drama, creating a sense of emotional intensity. The upward gaze is a visual code for religious ecstasy, something common in the Baroque period. This piece also relates to institutional history, as Piazzetta was the director of the Venetian Academy, which shaped artistic production. Was this sketch made for a student, or for a large altarpiece? Art historians use period documents, religious texts, and social histories to better understand artworks like this. Each artwork reflects the society and institutions in which it was created.