The Denial of St Peter 1660
rembrandtvanrijn
impressionistic
charcoal drawing
possibly oil pastel
charcoal art
oil painting
neo expressionist
underpainting
painting painterly
charcoal
expressionist
Rembrandt van Rijn's "The Denial of St. Peter" (1660) is a powerful depiction of the biblical story. The painting portrays the moment when Peter, a disciple of Jesus, denies knowing him after Jesus' arrest. The dramatic use of chiaroscuro, a technique Rembrandt mastered, creates a sense of tension and mystery, highlighting Peter's internal struggle. The strong light source illuminates the figures, immersing the viewer in the scene and emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment. This work exemplifies Rembrandt's characteristic style, known for its psychological depth and dramatic contrasts.
Comments
While Christ is being questioned by the high priests in the dead of night, Peter waits outside. A maidservant recognizes him as one of Christ’s disciples, but Peter is afraid and denies it three times. In the right background, Christ is being led away, looking back over his shoulder at Peter who has betrayed him.
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