Study for the Figure of Saint Peter 1540 - 1550

Curator: This is Daniele da Volterra’s "Study for the Figure of Saint Peter," created sometime between 1540 and 1550. It's a pencil drawing on paper, currently held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Editor: It's remarkable, a ghost of a figure emerges from the paper. I am fascinated by the way light defines the robes, almost completely obscuring the body. Curator: The keys held in his left hand identify him, of course. Keys symbolize Saint Peter’s role as the gatekeeper of Heaven. The upturned gaze indicates spiritual ecstasy, perhaps contemplating divine mysteries. The very posture reflects a profound inner conviction. Editor: Considering this as a preparatory drawing, I’m interested in how Volterra considered process. Why was it important for the artist to delineate such meticulous details with such a delicate material as pencil? What choices did the material itself guide? Curator: Da Volterra clearly thought about line weight. A bolder stroke gives depth to the fabric, and fainter lines help delineate the softer areas of skin. Think about it too within the artistic milieu of the Renaissance and how preparatory drawings gained status as valued collector's items. Editor: I can see that tension, especially between the status of paper and the almost luxurious application to it, building out of it. We so often detach drawings like this from larger workshop practice. Was the status of the saint connected to these developments? Curator: Absolutely. The symbolism of Saint Peter held immense weight in the 16th century. He represented the foundation of the Church, apostolic authority, and the legitimacy of the papacy. To capture him, Volterra employed specific techniques of shading and composition to imbue Peter with the authority due. Editor: Knowing that history only heightens the experience. Curator: Indeed, looking at this drawing really shows how intertwined are medium, method, and the rich symbolism attached to the figure of Saint Peter. Editor: Yes, and it highlights for me how choices related to materials shaped meaning itself.