The Martyrdom of Saint Symphorien

Currently not on view

The Martyrdom of Saint Symphorien

1865

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres (French, 1780–1867)

Ingres here depicts Saint Symphorien, a Roman Christian of the second or third century, being led to his execution for his contempt of a pagan image. Symphorien's mother shouts encouragement to him from the city wall. In the fifth century, a church in honor of Symphorien was built at Autun, France, the scene of his martyrdom. In 1834, Ingres completed a monumental altarpiece of the subject for the cathedral at Autun, and some thirty years later he painted this small-scale replica.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

The Martyrdom of Saint Symphorien

Date:

1865

Artist:

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres (French, 1780–1867)

Medium:

Oil on canvas

Dimensions:

14 7/16 x 12 7/16 inches (36.7 x 31.6 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

John G. Johnson Collection, 1917

Accession Number:

Cat. 793

Geography:

Made in France, Europe

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view