Saint Peter Martyr Healing the Leg of a Young Man

Antonio Vivarini

Created:
Movement:
1455
Renaissance
key Notes:
Religious Miracle, Early Renaissance Style
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Dimensions:
20 7/8 x 13 1/8 in. (53 x 33.3 cm)
medium:
Tempera and gold on wood
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Saint Peter Martyr Healing the Leg of a Young Man" is a painting attributed to Antonio Vivarini, created around 1450. The work depicts Saint Peter Martyr, a Dominican saint, performing a miracle by healing a young man's leg. Vivarini was an important figure in the Venetian school of painting, known for his use of vibrant colors and detailed figures. The painting reflects the influence of Gothic and early Renaissance styles, showcasing a blend of naturalism and spiritual themes. The composition emphasizes the saint's gesture and the young man's expression, highlighting the miraculous event. The work is characterized by its intricate drapery and attention to anatomical detail. The current location of the painting is unknown, and its provenance prior to the 20th century is not well-documented.

Description of the work:

"Saint Peter Martyr Healing the Leg of a Young Man" by Antonio Vivarini, created circa 1450, is a tempera and gold on wood painting that depicts the moment of miraculous healing performed by Saint Peter Martyr. The composition features the saint, identifiable by his distinctive attributes, including a palm branch and a sword, which symbolize his martyrdom. The young man, who is the recipient of the healing, is shown with a visible leg injury, emphasizing the act of divine intervention. Vivarini employs a rich color palette, with vibrant reds and blues, contrasted by the luminous gold background that enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the scene. The figures are rendered with a sense of volume and depth, showcasing Vivarini's skill in creating three-dimensional forms. The intricate details of the garments and the expressive faces of the figures contribute to the overall narrative quality of the work. The painting exemplifies the early Renaissance style, characterized by a blend of Gothic influences and emerging naturalism. The use of gold leaf not only adds a decorative element but also signifies the sacred nature of the subject matter. The overall composition is balanced and harmonious, guiding the viewer's eye through the interaction between the saint and the young man.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Saint Peter Martyr Healing the Leg of a Young Man