Who painted The Denial of Peter?

The Denial of Peter was painted by Peter Wtewael in 1626-01-01.

Where can I see The Denial of Peter?

The Denial of Peter is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Denial of Peter?

The Denial of Peter is associated with Caravaggisti.

Can I buy a print of The Denial of Peter?

Museum-quality prints of The Denial of Peter are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Denial of Peter

Peter Wtewael , 1626

The Denial of Peter is an oil painting by the Caravaggisti artist Peter Wtewael. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Technique & Style

The compact dimensions suggest an intimate format, likely intended for private devotion or close viewing.

The Denial of Peter is an oil painting on panel, measuring 28 by 45.5 cm. Executed in 1626 by the Dutch artist Peter Wtewael, the work belongs to the genre of religious art. The choice of oil on panel reflects the standard practice of Dutch painters of the period, offering a smooth, durable surface suited to the detailed handling characteristic of Wtewael's style. The compact dimensions suggest an intimate format, likely intended for private devotion or close viewing.

History & Provenance

Peter Wtewael executed The Denial of Peter in 1626. Created in the Netherlands, the work is an oil painting on panel depicting the biblical scene of Peter's denial. The artwork eventually entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is held under the accession number 1972.169.

The painting is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is recorded under accession number 1972.169.

It was included in an exhibition titled Dutch Masters from the Hermitage at the Portland Art Museum in 1982–1983.

Overview

Peter Wtewael's oil painting, The Denial of Peter, was completed in 1626. This religious work depicts a pivotal moment from the New Testament, showcasing the artist's engagement with dramatic narrative. The painting is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art, where it offers insight into 17th-century Dutch art and biblical storytelling.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the biblical account of Peter's denial of Christ. A central figure, seen from behind and holding a sword, confronts a group of individuals whose concerned expressions and gestures convey the scene's emotional weight. This dramatic interaction unfolds within a dimly lit setting, emphasizing the tension and the gravity of the moment as Peter disavows his association with Jesus.