St. Peter (1529) by Vasco Fernandes and Gaspar Vaz (collaboration on the predella)Grão Vasco National Museum
Vasco Fernandes, the mythical Grão Vasco, is one of the most fascinating personalities in Portuguese and Renaissance art.
This work, painted around 1529, was the former altarpiece at Viseu Cathedral. Painted on an exceptionally large scale, like the other four altarpieces that he produced for the same cathedral, this image has become an icon for the supremacy of spiritual over temporal power.
In the center is the apostle, sitting on a throne, holding up his hand and reading. The way in which the composition is structured is essential for creating a sense of monumentality.
Through the two openings on either side of the throne, Vasco creates scenes in the distance that allude to the apostle's life.
On the left is a scene of 'The Calling of the Fisherman', where Jesus came across the fisherman and asked them to become his disciples...
...and on the right is a scene of 'Quo Vadis?', depicting the meeting between Peter and Jesus.
Entering from the upper right of the picture, the light highlights the throne and casts a shadow behind the apostle.
This painting of St. Peter is the result of skilful and patient work, creating powerful characterisation through the face.
Discover more about 'St. Peter'.
