Saint Simon
Historical Context
Saint Simon, from the same 1633 apostle series, is typically depicted with a saw — the instrument of his martyrdom — or a book. Simon the Zealot is one of the less prominent apostles in the New Testament narrative, which gave painters some freedom in establishing his image. Zurbarán's treatment maintains the monumental, devotional character of the whole series, elevating this minor apostle to the same hieratic dignity as the more celebrated figures.
Technical Analysis
Simon stands with his attribute in the characteristic Zurbarán apostle format: isolated against a dark ground, his drapery sculpted by strong light from a single source. The simplicity of the composition focuses all attention on the spiritual presence of the standing figure.
