Saint Peter Healing the Sick with His Shadow
1574
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1574
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving shows a crowded scene with a man in robes standing at the center, surrounded by people lying on the ground. Some figures look sick, while others watch or reach toward him. In the background, a city with buildings and a hill rises, and more people climb steps or gather around. The whole image is made of fine lines and shading, giving it a textured look. The standing man’s shadow stretches out over the sick, suggesting it’s healing them—a detail that stands out in the busy scene. The Latin text at the bottom hints at the story, but the focus is on the mix of action and stillness. Next, look up engraving to see how artists create these detailed prints.