Annibale Carracci, Christ Appearing to Saint Peter on the Appian Way
Annibale Carracci painted Christ Appearing to Saint Peter on the Appian Way in 1601-2. This directly coincided with the timing of the Counter- Reformation and the Council of Trent, so these events likely influenced Carracci's religious fervor in this piece.
In this painting the resurrected Jesus is walking back to Rome carrying a cross to be re-crucified and runs into Peter who has just escaped jail in Rome. The scars from the previous crucifixion are visible on Jesus and his red mantle (symbolizing his humanity and the blood he has shed) accompanies his crown of thorns. Peter is depicted in his usual blue and yellow robes and distinguished by the keys he carries (see previous post).
Carracci is an early baroque artist, and many of the characteristics of his work come from Renaissance era themes. For example many of his works feature rich blended colors and symmetry (for example in my Renaissance post the work is very symmetrical). The main feature of this piece that characterizes it as a baroque piece is Jesus' interaction with the audience. In this painting, which Jesus is addressing Peter, he is standing facing the audience. His body is open to the viewer, he is stepping forward to us, pointing at his destination (Rome) which must lie "in front" of the picture, the bottom of the cross also juts out towards us.
While I wouldn't own a copy of this work it is absolutely meant to inspire awe. In this work Jesus has returned from the dead and Peter is astonished to see him. In addition, he is going back to Rome to be crucified and die again, despite having just rejoined the living. He is scarred, there are thorns digging into his head, and yet he looks strong and at peace and carries the heavy cross effortlessly along with him. There are very few things that would inspire more awe than this.
Citations:
Dr. Melisa Palermo, "Annibale Carracci, Christ Appearing to Saint Peter on the Appian Way," in Smarthistory, November 29, 2015, accessed October 13, 2023, https://smarthistory.org/annibale-carracci-christ-appearing-to-saint-peter-on-the-appian-way/.
ReplyDeleteThis painting makes it look like we are a part of this walk. The amount of detail and real-life paintings that were made during this time amazes me. I would agree, I don't believe I could own any paintings of this time frame. They all deserve to be placed in a museum for all to be viewed.
I agree with his ability to blend rich colors together. He was an outstanding artist. I, too, wouldn't own any of his art; I'm not much religious. I appreciated the piece you picked in connection to the assignment based on the time frame; it would be a part of the baroque era. Initially, you say it's connected to the Council of Trent but do not tell us how. Adding that would really add to your post for those who don't know how it is.
ReplyDeleteThis art is so wonderful and I agree how the blend of colors used by the artists so appealing especially the red mantel in the picture to symbolizes humanity, a dark background plus clouds according to me I can equate to the morning when the resurrection occurs.
ReplyDeleteI also like how you linked your themes between the Baroque and Renaissance have looked at both of your posts and is perfect, especially the interactions and colors.