The Martyrdom of St Stephen 1576

Cornelis Cort created "The Martyrdom of St. Stephen" as an engraving during a time of religious conflict and transformation. Cort, working within the conventions of the Northern Renaissance, presents us with a scene of intense violence set against the backdrop of divine serenity. Here, we see Stephen, a figure of early Christian faith, being stoned to death for his beliefs. The emotional weight of the piece resides in the contrast between the earthly chaos and the heavenly vision above, where God looks down. The image evokes questions of power and persecution, revealing how religious identity can become a battleground. Who has the right to kill in the name of faith? Cort's print prompts us to reflect on the enduring relevance of themes of faith, persecution, and the struggle for justice, while reminding us of the human capacity for both extreme cruelty and unwavering devotion.