Probably you know that several very famous painters were gay, I recommand a first class web site which is very comprehensive on the subject: http://homodesiribus.blogspot.com/. This site is in French.
Il Perugino “Saint Sebastian” 1500-1510.
Sebastian was a Christian saint and martyr, considered as the icon of the gay community. He was persecuted by the Roman Emperor Diocletian and shot with arrows. He is the Patron of soldiers which include archers, athletes and municipal officers. By extension of his recognition by the gay community is also the reference for the youth and male beauty.

