Artwork
The Martyrdom of St. Peter and St. Paul
The Martyrdom of St. Peter and St. Paul is a print by the Renaissance artist Antonio da Trento. It dates from 1528 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This chiaroscuro print depicts the simultaneous martyrdom of St.
About this work
Overview
This chiaroscuro print depicts the simultaneous martyrdom of St. Peter and St. Paul, as ordered by Emperor Nero. The scene shows St. Paul kneeling before execution and St. Peter being dragged to his crucifixion, surrounded by soldiers with swords and torches.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates a traditional narrative of Christian martyrdom, highlighting the fate of two prominent saints. St. Paul is shown kneeling in anticipation of beheading, while St. Peter is depicted upside-down on a cross, emphasizing their distinct yet concurrent martyrdoms.
Technique & Style
Crafted using two wood blocks—one for lines and one for shadows—the print showcases early experimentation with chiaroscuro. The dark ink layer creates depth, evoking a dimly lit atmosphere. This technique, pioneered in collaboration with Parmigianino, adds dramatic tension to the scene.
History & Provenance
Attributed to Antonio da Trento, a student of Parmigianino in Bologna (1527-1531), this print is considered one of da Trento's first collaborative efforts with his master. It was based on a drawing created in Rome (1524-1527) for a potential papal commission.
Artist & collection
Artist
Antonio da Trento (1508–1550) was an Italian printmaker, born in Trento. He specialized in chiaroscuro woodcuts, especially of religious subjects. Da Trento probably first learned wood engraving from Ugo da Carpi. He…
![The Martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul [recto], by Antonio da Trento](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/antonio-da-trento--the-martyrdom-of-saints-peter-and-paul-recto--a51e90060085a207-w320.webp)
