Born near Bologna, Zoppo was also active in Venice and produced paintings in a distinctively
precise—almost harsh—style. In this work, he takes care to emphasize each
individual curl and vein. The colors, definition, gold background, and typical
symbols of the figure are all iconographic. But—unlike in icons—the saint is
powerfully built and his eyes do not meet the viewer’s.This painting’s age is revealed in its cracked gold leafing, but the expression on St. Peter’s face still remains vivid. He slightly bows his head, his eyes fixed reverently outside the frame. His mouth is parted slightly; his brow seems expectant. In all this, the book and keys are almost forgotten in his powerful hands. Indeed, attention is brought away from book, keys, and St. Peter himself, by the enraptured gaze Zoppo depicts so well.
The Feast of the Chair of St. Peter is February 22.
