Saint Longinus
Begun in 1545, the Council of Trent impacted the content of religious art throughout sixteenth and seventeenth century. The Council of Trent, which reaffirmed basic Catholic doctrine in response to the Protestant Reformation, clarified what elements should be considered in all religious artwork. It was determined religious artwork should depict key aspects of Catholic doctrine, including the saints and sacraments. The art produced during this time was supposed to be clear, accurate, show decorum, and have emotional accessibility. In creating any religious work of art, including Saint Longinus, these guidelines were to be followed.