Martyrdom of Saint Maurice

painting by El Greco

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June 30, 2026

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The "Martyrdom of Saint Maurice" is a painting by El Greco, a Spanish Renaissance artist of Greek descent. The painting depicts Saint Maurice, a Christian soldier believed to have been martyred around 286 CE with his comrades. According to legend, the Theban Legion, led by Maurice, refused to fight against fellow Christians and were executed by Roman emperor Maximian. El Greco's depiction of this event, however, did not meet with the king's approval and was replaced. The painting is characterized by El Greco's distinctive dramatic and expressionistic style, with elongated figures and vibrant, contrasting colors.12

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El Greco
Middle years
…1578–79) and second of the Martyrdom of St. Maurice and the Theban (1580–82). The latter painting did not meet with the approval of the king, who promptly ordered another work of the same subject to replace it. Thus ended the great artist’s connection with the Spanish court. The king may…
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…1578–79) and second of the Martyrdom of St. Maurice and the Theban (1580–82). The latter painting did not meet with the approval of the king, who promptly ordered another work of the same subject to replace it. Thus ended the great artist’s connection with the Spanish court. The king may…
Read More