The Deposition of Saint Peter (La Déposition de saint Pierre)
Panel painting, likely a fragment of a larger altarpiece (retablo) • Pere Lembrí (Spanish, active in Morella c. 1399, died in Tortosa c. 1421)
Style & Movement
International Gothic / Catalan Gothic, influenced by the Sienese school
Medium & Technique
Tempera on wood panel, utilizing gold leaf and traditional Gothic layering techniques
Creation Period
Circa 1410-1415
Dimensions & Format
Rectangular vertical panel; part of a larger multi-panel retablo originally consisting of over twenty panels.
Subject Description
A narrative scene depicting the body of Saint Peter being taken down from the cross after his crucifixion (upside down), as described in the Golden Legend. Features disciples Marcellus and Apuleius embalming the body, with a symbolic throne alluding to Nero or Agrippa.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; remains stable following museum-standard conservation for display.
Estimated Market Value
$150,000 - $300,000 (Based on the rarity of intact Catalan Gothic works by identified masters)
Auction Estimate
$100,000 - $200,000
Provenance History
Originally part of a large retablo dedicated to St. Peter; Horsley and Annie Townsend Bequest (1958.1196); currently held in a museum collection (likely the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts).
Art Historical Significance
A significant example of Pere Lembrí's role in the Catalan Gothic movement, showcasing the synthesis of local Spanish styles with Italian Sienese influence.
Notable Features
Vibrant use of primary colors, dramatic narrative rhythm, and high-quality gold gilding on the architectural framing elements.
Condition Issues
Typical age-related wood contraction, minor surface craquelure, and possible historical stabilization of the panel support.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain stable humidity (45-55%) and low UV light exposure; protect within a museum-grade archival frame as currently displayed.