Sebastian, St (died c. 258)

Roman soldier. He was traditionally a member of Emperor Diocletian's bodyguard until his Christian faith was discovered. He was condemned to be killed by arrows. Feast day 20 January.

Sebastian is said to have survived being shot full of arrows (the manner in which he is usually depicted) and was finally beaten to death with clubs. He has been regarded since the 4th century as a protector against plague. A large number of images of him were created during the Renaissance, which may be explained as an opportunity to depict the male nude.