Artwork
Saint Peter the Martyr praying
Saint Peter the Martyr praying is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Pedro Berruguete. It dates from 1498 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Saint Peter the Martyr praying is a 1498 oil painting by Pedro Berruguete, representing a pivotal work in the Hispano-Flemish style. It portrays the titular saint in a moment of devotion, characteristic of the religious genre prevalent during the period.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Peter of Verona, a Dominican martyr, kneeling in fervent prayer before a crucifix. The composition conveys a sense of deep spirituality and reverence, emphasizing the saint's devotion through his clasped hands and contemplative posture.
Technique & Style
Berruguete, known for introducing Renaissance techniques to Spain, employed Flemish-influenced methods in this work. Notable elements include dramatic chiaroscuro, intricate golden backgrounds with minute designs, and a dynamically rendered monk's robe, suggesting movement.
History & Provenance
Created in 1498, the painting is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection in Madrid, Spain. As one of Berruguete's significant works, it highlights his role in bridging Flemish and early Renaissance Spanish art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pedro Berruguete (c. 1450 – 1504) was a Spanish painter who adopted Flemish techniques and conventions and so is part of the Hispano-Flemish style. Berruguete most famously created paintings of the first few years of…
St. Francis Kneeling before Christ on the Cross
The Crucifixion with a Carthusian Monk
Saint Jerome Penitent
The Crucifixion with a Carthusian Monk
Crucifixion
The Crucifixion with Saint Jerome and Saint Francis
Crusifixion with the Virgin Mary and Sts Dominic, Jerome and Francis
Redemption Triptych: The Crucifixion
Saint Catherine of Siena Receiving the Stigmata
St. Francis Kneeling before Christ on the Cross
The Pérussis Altarpiece
Crucifixion