The exhibition of the Irbit State Museum of Fine Arts features an 1814 etching by Alexei Egorovich Egorov, “The Liberation of the Apostle Peter from Prison”.

The print is characterized by a beautiful drawing, elegance, and at the same time, attention to detail. Alexei Egorov was able to accurately portray the features of human anatomy and create well-arranged compositions. He used to say to his students, “Drawing is a science. It is as precise as algebra. Master the antique beauty of the human body.” In a traditional way, some elements in this composition are typical of the story of the liberation of the apostle Peter and can be found in the works of other artists. These features include a sleeping guard, a barred window, shackles, chains, an angel, and a prisoner with a halo (the sign of a holy person).

Alexei Egorovich Egorov was a deeply religious man who drew inspiration from the Bible. He created several famous religious paintings, including “The Appearance of Christ to Mary Magdalene” and “The Descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles”. In 1812, he was recognized as an expert in historical painting and was awarded the title of professor. In 1814, he completed his masterpiece “The Torture of the Savior” which was considered his best work by his contemporaries. Egorov often received commissions from St. Petersburg nobility to paint their portraits, but he usually declined. His main goal was to illustrate the Bible and glorify God’s word.