The Penitence of Saint Peter 1735 - 1745

Editor: So, this engraving from around 1735-1745 is titled "The Penitence of Saint Peter." It's currently housed at The Met and attributed to Jeremias Gottlob Rugendas after a painting by Jusepe de Ribera. I’m immediately drawn to the somber mood – Peter’s gaze is intense. The rendering of the face looks remarkably soft for a print. What’s your initial take? Curator: The first thing that catches my eye is that upward gaze. It’s not just sadness, is it? There's a yearning, a reaching. The old boy's practically pleading with the heavens. Now, given the context—Peter denying Christ—think about the weight of that denial. The books he rests his hands on aren't just props; they're a symbol of knowledge, of scripture, now stained with his betrayal. What does contrition look like, feel like? I imagine it probably stings the soul. Editor: That makes so much sense! The books had almost receded into the background for me, but knowing the narrative, it’s obvious how powerful a symbol they are in this context. It's interesting how a medium known for precision still lets through something like raw emotion. Curator: Raw indeed! It is a copy of painting by Ribera, though, and an engraver – especially one of Mannl’s caliber – wouldn’t just replicate the *image*, he'd strive to capture the *feeling*, right? Consider the almost theatrical lighting here – what they called tenebrism – it isn’t just about showing off skill; it amplifies that interior turmoil, don't you think? Editor: Absolutely, that sharp contrast really intensifies the drama. I initially viewed it as just a formal element, but I see now how crucial it is to understanding the emotional weight of the piece. Curator: That's art history for you. A dance between skill and intention! What an interesting moment it captures; it really digs at that complicated intersection of faith, fallibility, and forgiveness. I feel like I understand Peter a little better now, flaws and all. Editor: Yeah, that's amazing. It shows how just one expressive work can say more than any sermon ever could!