Artwork
St. Peter's release from prison by the angel
St. Peter's release from prison by the angel is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Gerard van Honthorst. It dates from 1617 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. St.
About this work
Overview
St. Peter's release from prison by the angel is a 1617 painting by Gerard van Honthorst, a Dutch artist influenced by Italian Baroque style.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Peter's liberation from prison by an angel, a biblical scene conveying divine intervention. The angel's presence is underscored by contrast with the dark surroundings, emphasizing its role.
Technique & Style
The work employs chiaroscuro, using strong light and dark contrasts to create depth and emotional intensity. Van Honthorst's use of artificial light is characteristic of his style, reflecting the influence of Caravaggio.
History & Provenance
The painting is now part of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin collection. Created in 1617, it exemplifies van Honthorst's early work, showcasing his adoption of Italian Baroque elements following his time in Rome.
Artist & collection
Artist
Gerard "Gerrit" van Honthorst (4 November 1592 – 27 April 1656) was a Dutch Golden Age painter who became known for his depiction of artificially lit scenes, eventually receiving the Italian nickname Gherardo delle Notti ("Gerard of the…
The Triumph of the Winter Queen: Allegory of the Just
Een vrolijke vioolspeler
Frederik Hendrik (1584-1647), Prince of Orange, his wife Amalia van Solms (1602-75) and their three youngest daughters, Albertina Agnes (1634-96), Henrietta Catharina (1637-1708) and Maria (1642-88)
Samson and Delilah
Satyr and Nymph
Young Woman with a Candlestick, Old Woman and a Violin Player
Willem II (1626-50), Prince of Orange, and his wife Maria Stuart (1631-60)
Friedrich Wilhelm (1620-88), Elector of Brandenburg, and his wife Louise Henriette (1627-67), Countess of Orange-Nassau
