St. Serapion was a 12th century missionary and member of the

Mercedarian Order.  He followed the carnage of the crusades, helping

where he could and binding the wounded.  Serapion traded himself

in exchange for the release of an entire town held hostage.  His fellow

missionaries hoped to pay his ransom and gain his release, but he was

instead martyred. 

 

This painting is a homage to Zurbaran and his 17th century depiction

of St. Serapion.

 

Jeremy Reed is the artist's son, who graciously agreed to be the

model for this painting.