Saints Peter and John Healing the Lame Man

Nicolas Poussin

Created:
Movement:
1655
Classicism
key Notes:
Baroque Classicism, Biblical Narrative
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Dimensions:
49 1/2 x 65 in. (125.7 x 165.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Saints Peter and John Healing the Lame Man" is a painting by Nicolas Poussin, created in 1655. The work depicts a biblical scene from the Acts of the Apostles, specifically the moment when Saints Peter and John heal a lame man at the Temple in Jerusalem. Poussin's composition emphasizes the dramatic interaction between the saints and the healed man, showcasing his characteristic use of classical forms and balanced composition. The painting is notable for its clarity of narrative and the emotional expressions of the figures. It reflects Poussin's interest in the themes of faith and divine intervention. The work is part of the collection at the National Gallery in London. The painting's provenance and exhibition history are documented, but specific details about its early ownership are less clear.

Description of the work:

"Saints Peter and John Healing the Lame Man" by Nicolas Poussin, created in 1655, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a biblical scene from the Acts of the Apostles. The composition is characterized by a dynamic arrangement of figures, with Saints Peter and John prominently positioned in the foreground. The figures are rendered with a strong sense of volume and anatomical precision, showcasing Poussin's mastery of classical form. The use of chiaroscuro enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures, while the warm color palette contributes to the emotional intensity of the scene. The background features architectural elements and a crowd of onlookers, which adds depth and context to the narrative. The overall composition is balanced, with a triangular arrangement that guides the viewer's eye towards the central act of healing. The painting exemplifies Poussin's interest in clarity, order, and the moral implications of the depicted event.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Saints Peter and John Healing the Lame Man