ST PETER THE PENITENT

1720–1740
Oil on canvas, relined, 50×38.5 cm (60×48.5 cm). Framed. An intimately conceived half-length figure of an old man bowed over a book depicts the Apostle Peter, whose identity is confirmed by the attribute of keys symbolising the "keys of the Kingdom of Heaven". The penitent meditation following the nocturnal betrayal of Christ is the subject of this deeply inward and painfully exalted scene, emphasised by dramatic side lighting and a deep dark background, referencing the tradition of Baroque chiaroscuro. Light and the deep shadow of night underscore the expressive modelling of the head and hands. The painting employs a limited, warm palette of brown and ochre tones contrasting with a blue-green accent of the garment. Stylistically, the work can be placed within the circle of high-quality Central European Baroque painting of the 18th century, with ties to the Bohemian milieu and to the tradition of Caravaggesque figure painting from the circle of Petr Brandl / Michael Václav Halbax. Condition B. Overall craquelure.