St. Tarcisius: Roman Martyr of the Eucharist
Catholic Digital Art Download
$5.00
This ultra-lifelike, hyper-photorealistic, award-winning high-definition watercolor portrait captures St. Tarcisius, the youthful Roman martyr who gave his life to protect the Blessed Sacrament during the 3rd-century persecution under Emperor Valerian. His gaze lifts heavenward, illuminated by a golden beam of light, as he holds the Eucharist in a radiant monstrance close to his heart—a visual testimony to his courage, purity, and love for Christ.
Wheat and grapes, symbols of the bread and wine transformed in the Mass, rest at the base of the image, while the deep red sash across his shoulder signifies martyrdom. Subtle gold accents, ornate detailing, and the reverent glow surrounding the Host draw the viewer into contemplation of the Real Presence.
Short Biography
During the mid-3rd century, Rome’s streets were perilous for Christians. One day, after a secret Mass in the Catacombs of Callixtus, a priest needed someone to carry the Eucharist to imprisoned believers. Tarcisius, a young acolyte, volunteered. Along the way, pagan boys tried to force him to reveal what he carried. Refusing to surrender the Blessed Sacrament, he was beaten with stones and clubs. When rescued, he was dying—but the Eucharist had vanished from sight, miraculously preserved from desecration. Pope St. Damasus later honored him as one “who preferred to give up his life rather than betray the Body of Christ to rabid dogs.”
Symbolism in the Art
Monstrance: The Eucharist at the center of his mission and martyrdom.
Red Sash: Symbol of his sacrifice and martyr’s blood.
Wheat & Grapes: The bread and wine transformed into Christ’s Body and Blood.
Golden Light: The divine presence of Christ and heavenly reward of the martyr.
Perfect For
First Communion gifts
Altar server appreciation
Eucharistic adoration spaces
Catholic homes, classrooms, and parish halls
Devotion to the Blessed Sacrament
Product Details:
Digital download only – no physical item shipped
High-resolution PNG format
Portrait orientation
Watermark-free file for printing
Feast Day: August 15
Patron of: Altar servers, first communicants, defenders of the Eucharist