A Study from Life [and] Study for Angel Releasing Saint Peter from Prison

A Study from Life [and] Study for Angel Releasing Saint Peter from Prison

Artist: Washington Allston

Year: 1815

Medium: Oil on paperboard

Artistic and Historical Context

Washington Allston's "A Study from Life [and] Study for Angel Releasing Saint Peter from Prison" exemplifies the artist's mastery in combining Romanticism with religious themes. Created in 1815, this work reflects Allston's interest in exploring spiritual and supernatural subjects, a common motif in his oeuvre. The painting is significant for its demonstration of Allston's skill in capturing dramatic narratives and emotional intensity, which were influential in the development of American Romantic art. Allston, often referred to as the "American Titian," was a pivotal figure in early 19th-century American art, known for his innovative use of color and light.

Biographical Context

Washington Allston was born in 1779 in South Carolina and studied at the Royal Academy in London, where he was influenced by European masters. His work often bridged the gap between European Romanticism and American art, making him a key figure in the transatlantic art scene of his time. Allston's contributions to art were not limited to painting; he was also a poet and writer, which enriched his artistic narrative and thematic depth.

A Study from Life [and] Study for Angel Releasing Saint Peter from Prison

Created in 1815 by Washington Allston, this artwork employs oil on paperboard to explore religious themes, specifically the biblical narrative of an angel liberating Saint Peter from incarceration. The piece reflects Allston's Romantic style, characterized by dramatic lighting and expressive figures, and is part of his broader exploration of spiritual and historical subjects.