Saint Peter (El Greco) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Peter |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Artist | El Greco |
| Year | 1608 |
| Medium | oil on canvas |
| Dimensions | 207 cm × 105 cm (81 in × 41 in) |
| Location | Monasterio del Escorial, San Lorenzo de El Escorial (Madrid). |
Saint Peter is a famous painting created by the Spanish artist El Greco in 1608. He painted it in Toledo, Spain, near the end of his life. This artwork is made with oil paints on a large canvas. Today, you can see it at the El Escorial Monastery close to Madrid, Spain.
This painting shows Saint Peter, an important figure in Christianity. He stands on a mountain, holding a set of keys. These keys are a symbol from the Bible. They represent a special task given to Peter by Jesus. Jesus said Peter would be "the rock" on which his church would be built. He also promised Peter "the keys of the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 16: 18-19).
El Greco's style is easy to spot in this painting. Notice the flowing, heavy clothes on Saint Peter. Also, the way Peter's head seems a bit small compared to his body is typical of El Greco's unique artistic style.
About the Artist: El Greco
El Greco was a Greek painter, sculptor, and architect. He spent most of his life working in Spain. His real name was Doménikos Theotokópoulos. He is known for his dramatic and expressive paintings. Many of his works show religious scenes. He used bright colors and often made figures look long and stretched out.
The Meaning of the Keys
The keys in the painting are very important. They represent the authority given to Saint Peter. In the Bible, Jesus gave Peter the keys to the kingdom of heaven. This means Peter had a special role in the early Christian church. The keys symbolize his power to forgive sins and to lead.
See also
In Spanish: San Pedro (El Greco, El Escorial) para niños
- List of works by El Greco
