The Martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul [recto]
1530
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
![The Martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul [recto]](https://pub-3a17a9933ad74fb28aa30fa758592f23.r2.dev/artworks/a51e90060085a207/full.webp)
1530
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows Saints Peter and Paul kneeling as soldiers raise swords above them. The light and dark contrast is sharp, thanks to three wood blocks used for printing. One block carves the lines, the others fill in shadows and mid-tones. The drama comes from the way light falls on the men’s faces. Peter looks resigned. Paul seems to stare ahead without fear. If you like this, look up Antonio da Trento’s prints at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
