The Denial of Saint Peter
c. 1620 National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa
About this artwork
This dramatic oil painting by Gerrit van Honthorst captures a pivotal biblical moment with intense chiaroscuro. The artist, known as 'Gherardo delle Notti,' was a prominent member of the Utrecht Caravaggisti, deeply influenced by Caravaggio's use of light and shadow.
Did you know?
Gerrit van Honthorst earned the nickname 'Gherardo delle Notti' (Gerard of the Night) in Italy due to his distinctive use of artificial light and dramatic chiaroscuro in nocturnal scenes, a style heavily influenced by Caravaggio. This particular work exemplifies his skill in creating intense emotional narratives through light and shadow, capturing the tension of Saint Peter's denial of Christ.
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The Denial of Saint Peter
Michelangelo da Caravaggio, c. 1620
