The finding of the bodies of Sts Peter and Paul c. 1645-50
Etching | 30.2 x 20.7 cm (platemark) | RCIN 830457
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An etching of the dark interior of a cavern with light from a torch, held by one of a band of men, illuminating the forms of two bodies laid out on the ground. Inscribed in the margin, lower left; CASTIGLIONE GENOVESE / Inven. The print depicts the catacomb in which the bodies of the two martyred saints were hidden when the early Christian burial grounds were desecrated during the Roman persecutions. A group of men stumble into the cavernous vault, huddled together in fear, their single blazing torch revealing the corpses – St Paul headless, St Peter still clutching his keys.
Provenance
Probably Joseph Smith, British Consul in Venice; from whom purchased by George III, 1762
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Medium and techniques
Etching
Measurements
30.2 x 20.7 cm (platemark)
Category
Object type(s)
Alternative title(s)
Saints Peter and Paul in Tomb