Artwork

Christ and the Adultress

Christ and the Adultress, by Pedro Perret, ink, 1579
Christ and the Adultress, by Pedro Perret, ink, 1579

Christ and the Adultress is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Pedro Perret. It dates from 1579 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ and the Adultress is a 1579 engraving on laid paper by Pedro Perret, depicting a dramatic biblical scene.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving illustrates a moment of accusation, with a kneeling woman (the adultress) clutching a stone, surrounded by a crowd exhibiting anger, shock, and indignation. A robed figure points at her, emphasizing her condemnation.

Technique & Style

Perret employed intricate line work to convey intense emotions through the characters' body language and facial expressions. The dark background, with subtle suggestions of architectural elements, heightens the dramatic tension.

History & Provenance

Created in 1579, specific details about the engraving's provenance are not provided in the available information.

Context

The inclusion of Latin text at the bottom references a biblical narrative, though the primary focus of the composition is on capturing the emotional intensity of the scene rather than direct biblical illustration.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pedro Perret

Artist

Pedro Perret

Pedro Perret (1579–1579) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.