The artwork “The Repentant Saint Peter” is a poignant religious painting by Francisco Goya, created circa 1820 to 1824. The medium used is oil on canvas, and it exemplifies the Romanticism art movement. The piece measures 29 by 25.5 centimeters and is currently held in the Philips Collection in Washington, DC, United States.
The artwork captures the emotional turmoil of Saint Peter, depicted with an upward gaze, possibly seeking forgiveness from the heavens. His hands are clasped in prayer, firmly pressed against each other, symbolizing earnest supplication and remorse. The painting’s dark background contrasts with the lighter tones of Peter’s flesh and the golden hues of his garment, focusing the viewer’s attention on the expression of penitence etched on his face. Goya’s brushwork adds a texture that conveys a sense of raw emotion. The play of shadow and light enhances the overall dramatic intensity of the scene, characteristic of the Romantic period’s exploration of human feelings and spirituality.
