Saints Peter and Paul 1700 - 1800

This drawing of Saints Peter and Paul was made with graphite on paper by an anonymous artist. The unfinished quality of the work gives the viewer an insight into artistic production and its links to the religious and cultural context of its time. This image, likely originating from Europe, uses recognizable visual codes. Saints Peter and Paul are central figures in Christianity, often depicted together, thus having recognizable beards and robes. The historical association of these figures with the early church and the city of Rome would have made the image instantly recognizable to contemporary audiences. The drawing’s style, combined with the presence of Latin text in the lower corner, suggests the strong influence of the Catholic Church which commissioned art to promote religious teachings during the counter-reformation. Art historians employ a range of resources, including historical documents, religious texts, and studies of artistic styles to enhance our understanding of such works. By exploring the institutional context, we reveal the role of art in shaping cultural values and beliefs.