St. Sebastian tended by the Holy Irene
Renieri moved to Venice in 1626, where he was in great demand as a painter of religious scenes. It is here that the Ferens' St. Sebastian was probably painted. The style of the painting follows that of Caravaggio (1573-1610), the famous and influential Italian artist, with its realistic portrayal of physical suffering and the strong light-dark contrast, enhancing its dramatic appeal. St. Sebastian was an officer of the Roman Imperial Guard, punished for his belief in Christianity. He was nursed back to health by St. Irene (removing the arrow) but was later clubbed to death, his body thrown into Rome's main sewer. The models for the female saints are two of Renieri's daughters who were well-known for their beauty. They wear the lavish, billowing costume of their day.
