Artwork
The Denial of Saint Peter
The Denial of Saint Peter is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Rembrandt. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
The Denial of Saint Peter is a 1660 painting by Rembrandt, measuring 154 cm × 169 cm, executed on canvas and now housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Signed and dated 'Rembrandt 1660', it captures a pivotal moment from the Passion of Jesus.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the biblical event where Saint Peter denies his association with Jesus, as foretold. The scene unfolds after Jesus' arrest and during his trial by the Sanhedrin at the high priest Caiaphas' house. Peter, identifiable by his white robe, gestures denial to a servant woman, while Jesus, visible in the background, is led away to Pilate's court, aware of Peter's actions.
Technique & Style
Rembrandt employs chiaroscuro, characterized by a dimly lit setting illuminated by a single candle. Thick, visible brushstrokes create deep shadows and highlights, accentuating the emotional drama. The contrast between light and dark emphasizes the psychological tension of the denial.
History & Provenance
Originally part of various private collections in the Netherlands and France, the painting was sold to Catherine II of Russia in 1781, becoming part of the Hermitage Museum's collection. It was secretly sold by the Soviet government and acquired by the Rijksmuseum in 1933.
Context
Unlike many contemporaries, Rembrandt never traveled to Italy. His interpretation of biblical themes like The Denial of Saint Peter is believed to have been influenced by European prints, specifically engravings by Schelte a Bolswert and Giovanni Antonio de Paoli, based on works by Flemish artist Gerard Seghers.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (15 July 1606 – 4 October 1669), known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.
