Raffaello - Steinigung des heiligen Stephanus, 211

The central figure of Saint Stephen kneels in prayer, looking upward while surrounded by muscular executioners in dynamic, athletic poses. These nude or semi-nude figures are shown lifting and throwing stones, capturing a range of anatomical movements characteristic of Raphael's mature style. The sketch uses pen and brown ink to define the tension of the human form, focusing on the kinetic energy of the event.

This drawing serves as a study for the Sistine Chapel tapestries commissioned by Pope Leo X, representing the peak of the High Renaissance synthesis of classical anatomical study and Christian narrative. It reflects the Neoplatonic ideal that the perfection of the human body serves as a mirror for divine order, even within a scene of violent martyrdom.