Artwork
The Martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul
The Martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Antonio da Trento. It dates from 1530 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul is a chiaroscuro woodcut created by Antonio da Trento around 1530. It is printed from three blocks in varying tones of blue.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts the simultaneous execution of Saints Peter and Paul, conveying a scene of intense violence and faith. The composition includes a crowded scene with figures reacting to the event, set against a backdrop of classical architecture and a stormy sky.
Technique & Style
The woodcut is notable for its use of chiaroscuro, achieved through the layered printing of three separate blocks in different tones of blue, creating a range of shadows and highlights. This technique showcases da Trento's skill in a medium he specialized in.
History & Provenance
Antonio da Trento, born in 1508, trained under Ugo da Carpi and was influenced by Parmigianino. He later worked within the School of Fontainebleau, indicating a career that spanned different artistic circles.
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)
