Petrus Canisius (1521-97). Geestelijke en schrijver te Nijmegen 17th century

This is an anonymous portrait of Petrus Canisius, painted in oil on metal. The artist has built up the image through careful layering, creating a smooth, almost enamel-like surface. While the identity of the artist remains unknown, the process speaks volumes. Oil paint, though invented earlier, became dominant during the Renaissance due to its versatility. Its slow drying time allowed for layering and blending, creating realistic effects. The choice of metal as a support is also significant. Metal provides a smooth, non-absorbent surface, ideal for achieving fine detail and luminosity. The gold leaf applied in the background adds a sense of divinity. Consider the social context: the portrait commemorates Canisius, a key figure in the Counter-Reformation. The labor involved in creating such a refined image—the grinding of pigments, the meticulous brushwork—reflects the value placed on religious figures during this period. It moves beyond the functional needs of the church, into a realm of refined aesthetics.