The Martyrdom of Saint Peter 1555 - 1565

Martino Rota created this engraving, The Martyrdom of Saint Peter, sometime in the late sixteenth century. It depicts the crucifixion of Saint Peter, an event fraught with religious and political significance for its time. Notice the figures surrounding Peter, their exaggerated musculature and dramatic poses. Rota likely drew inspiration from the work of Michelangelo, whose art was patronized by the papacy in Rome and which set a powerful precedent for artists across Europe. This engraving speaks to the institution of the Catholic Church and its drive to consolidate power. To fully understand Rota’s work, we need to delve deeper into the religious and political context of the late 16th century, a period marked by the Counter-Reformation and religious conflicts. By examining period texts and researching the patronage networks of the time, we can gain greater insight into the complex relationship between art, religion, and power during this pivotal period in European history.