The Martyrdom of St. Peter Martyr 1615 - 1673

This drawing by Francisco Camilo, "The Martyrdom of St. Peter Martyr," is a powerful depiction of the death of the Dominican friar, St. Peter. Executed in the 17th century, the work shows the saint kneeling as he is attacked by an assassin. The dramatic composition and use of chiaroscuro heighten the tension and pathos of the scene. A host of angels above represent St. Peter's ascension into heaven, adding another layer of complexity to this dynamic and moving work. The drawing is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.