Carved mother of pearl relief depicting St Sebastian, South Germany, late 15th century

Carved mother of pearl relief depicting St Sebastian. St Sebastian, stripped and with long hair, is tied writhing to a tree. He faces the right with his left hand elbow hooked over a branch, and he has already been pierced by three arrows (the wounds only are shown). On the right are two soldiers, one preparing to shoot with his crossbow, the other holding his and about to throw a stone. On the left another soldier. The soldiers have belted tunics, trunk hose and high boots. The relief is convex, the figures almost in the round. The edges are badly chipped, the head and arm of one soldier are broken away.

Given by Mr T. Whitcombe Green

Perhaps based on a composition by the 15th century German engraver known as the Master E.S..

This relief representing St Sebastian was probably made in the early 16th century South Germany. This is perhaps based on a composition by the 15th century Germany engraver known as the Master E. S.

A.69-1929