The Tears of Saint Peter (El Greco, Barnard Castle) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Tears of Saint Peter |
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| Artist | El Greco |
| Year | 1580-1589 |
| Medium | oil on canvas |
The Tears of Saint Peter is a famous painting by the artist El Greco. He painted it between 1580 and 1589. This artwork is also sometimes called Penitent Saint Peter. Today, you can see this painting at the Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle, UK.
The painting shows Peter the Apostle, an important figure from the Bible. He is shown crying because he felt very sorry. Peter was weeping after he had denied knowing Jesus three times, just as Jesus had predicted. This moment of sadness and regret is what El Greco captured in his art.
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Who Was El Greco?
El Greco was a very special artist. His real name was Doménikos Theotokópoulos. He was born in Greece, but he spent most of his life painting in Spain. His art style is unique and easy to spot.
El Greco's Unique Style
El Greco's paintings often have long, stretched-out figures. He used bright, unusual colors. His art also shows strong feelings and spiritual ideas. He painted many religious scenes and portraits.
The Story of Saint Peter's Tears
The painting tells a story from the Christian Bible. Saint Peter was one of Jesus's closest friends. One night, Jesus was arrested. Peter was afraid and said three times that he did not know Jesus.
Peter's Regret
Right after Peter denied Jesus for the third time, a rooster crowed. Peter remembered that Jesus had said this would happen. He felt terrible sadness and regret. He went away and cried bitterly.
What the Painting Shows
In The Tears of Saint Peter, El Greco shows Peter with his hands clasped. His eyes are looking up, filled with tears. You can see his deep sorrow and his hope for forgiveness. The painting helps us understand Peter's feelings.
Other Versions of This Painting
El Greco painted several versions of The Tears of Saint Peter. This means he made more than one painting about the same moment. Each version might be a little different.
Where to Find Other Paintings
You can find other versions of this painting in different museums around the world. Some are in the Museo Soumaya in Mexico City and the Museo del Prado in Spain. Others are in the San Diego Museum of Art and the Toledo Museum of Art.
See also
In Spanish: Las lágrimas de san Pedro (El Greco, Bowes Museum) para niños
- List of works by El Greco
