Saint Vitalis
“Torture of Saint Vitalis on the Rack”, was painted by the artist Agostino Ciampelli (1595 ca.). The fresco illustrates the martyrdom of Saint Vitalis, who was tortured on a rack. The painting is characteristic of the late Mannerism style, known for its light colors and decorative quality, even when depicting gruesome subjects like martyrdom. The fresco is one of many similar large paintings that cover the walls of the church’s single nave, all depicting various martyrdom scenes of saints. The depiction of the rack was particularly impactful for viewers in 1600, as it was an instrument routinely used by Roman prosecutors at the time, reminding them of contemporary trials and executions. (Kremer, 2025) Photo from Rome, Italy, 2025.