Saint Peter 1799

"Saint Peter" is a drawing by Lukas Stipperger, made with pen and brown ink, brush and gray wash over traces of graphite. Stipperger created this piece in the late 18th to early 19th century, a time of religious and social upheaval that profoundly influenced artistic expression. Here, we see Peter, a figure central to the foundation of the Christian church, in a moment of profound personal crisis. Stipperger captures Peter’s emotional turmoil, likely after his denial of Christ. The presence of the rooster, a symbol of that betrayal, adds a layer of complexity to Peter's identity as both a leader and a flawed human. The sketch is rendered with visible, fluid lines. This choice invites us to consider the psychological weight of faith and doubt, and the struggle to reconcile personal failings with spiritual aspirations. It resonates with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of belief and self-doubt, reminding us of the deeply personal dimensions of faith.