San Esteban Acusado De Blasfemo

Spanish artist Juan de Juanes painted this Saint Stephen Accused of Blasphemy in 1562 as part of the Altarpiece of San Esteban in Valencia. The young saint, dressed in blue and gold, faces his accusers with serene composure, his gaze raised toward heaven. Light bathes Stephen while his accusers remain in shadow.

The painting captures the biblical moment when council members saw Stephen's face "like the face of an angel." The Jewish leaders appear agitated, their faces contorted as they point accusingly. This oil on panel measures 1.6 by 1.23 meters and demonstrates the harmonious colors and detail characteristic of the Valencian school. Now at the Museo del Prado in Madrid.