Nero’s Torches (Candlesticks of Christianity / Nero’s Living Torches)

Description

The painting, donated by the artist in 1879, served as the inspiration for the collection of the National Museum in Kraków. Also known as The Candlesticks of Christianity, this masterpiece depicts the persecution of Christians by Nero. It shows a scene of execution by burning in the gardens of Emperor Nero’s palace. The multi-figure composition emphasises the contrast between the victims and the indifferent Roman elite, as well as the material world. A quotation from the Gospel of St John placed on the frame lends the work additional significance.

More information in the digital catalog

We invite you to explore more in the digital catalog of the National Museum in Kraków.
Author of the entry: Aleksandra Krypczyk-De Barra

Localisation
National Museum in Krakow / Sukiennice / Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art / Siemiradzki Room
Owner
The National Museum in Krakow
Object number
MNK II-a-1
Copyright
CC0 – Public domain