The Penitence of Saint Peter

Jusepe de Ribera

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a man shown from head to knee, kneeling on the ground with his hands clasped together in front of his chest. He has an elderly appearance, with a full head of wavy hair and a beard, both of which are textured to indicate some age, likely turning grey or white. His facial features are detailed with a focus on his eyes and furrowed brow as he gazes upward. The man is wearing a long, flowing robe with loose sleeves, which drapes over him and gathers around his legs and feet. He appears to be outdoors, sitting against a large rock or hillside. Beside him on the ground lie two large keys, and his feet are sandalled. The background shows a landscape with slight hills and sparse, small trees under a gently clouded sky.