The Miraculous Catch of Fish

Johann Georg Platzer, from South Tyrol, was regarded as an outstanding exponent of fine painting in Vienna during the reign of Maria Theresa.

The artist has arranged the shadowy scene in the foreground like a frame and, by means of the baroque structure, guides the viewer's eye into the depths of the landscape. From amid the mass of people clad in earthy and pastel tones, the intense blue of Jesus' cloak shines forth. His status is further enhanced by the whitish light surrounding him. Beside him, Simon Peter falls to his knees, accusing himself as a sinner. Jesus reassures him, saying: "Fear not: from henceforth thou shalt catch men." The various groups of people follow events with avid interest. Four muscular men strain to draw in the brimming nets.
The artist's preferred picture support is copper. Besides its special glow, it shows his fine brushwork to best advantage.