The artwork “Denial of Saint Peter,” created in 1610 by the artist Caravaggio, rendered in oil on canvas, exemplifies the Baroque and Tenebrism movements. This religious painting, measuring 94 by 125 centimeters, is held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) located in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork captures a poignant biblical scene centered on Saint Peter’s denial of Jesus. Three figures dominate the composition; Saint Peter, identifiable on the right side, exhibits a troubled expression and gestures of denial as he crosses his hands defensively. The use of chiaroscuro is striking, with a strong contrast between light and shadow highlighting the emotional intensity and moral conflict of the moment. The central figure, likely a maid, points accusingly towards Peter, her face partially illuminated, which guides the viewer’s gaze and adds tension to the narrative. The soldier on the left, clad in armor, contributes to the dark, foreboding atmosphere. Caravaggio’s masterful manipulation of light and his realistic portrayal of human emotion and drama are evident, lending the artwork a powerful, almost theatrical presence that is characteristic of the baroque style.
