Filippo Napoletano was an eclectic painter who in addition to his landscapes was also noted for his small format works on stone supports which often depict subjects such as fires, ships and what were at the timed termed “the wonders of nature.” In the early decades of the 16th century the use of stone was seen as simply another option as a support for painting and slate and marble were the most widely used. Over time, however, and by the end of that century artists began to use other types of minerals which played a key role in the depicted scene. The present work can be located in that context given that the veins of the marble have an artistic function as they are used to represent the stormy waves of the Sea of Galilee. This painting on marble depicts the episode of Saint Peter walking on the water, which is a continuation of Christ walking on the water recounted in the Gospels of Matthew, John and Mark. The episode of Saint Peter walking on the waters, however, is only recounted in the Gospel of Saint Matthew (14: 25-33). It tells how the disciples, who were on a boat on the Sea of Galilee during stormy weather, were surprised to see a figure walking towards them on the water. This was in fact Christ, who after retiring to pray had miraculously walked on the water, although the disciples thought he was a spirit. Hearing the voice of Christ telling them to have no fear, only Saint Peter dared to walk towards him on the water. Realizing the strength of the wind, however, he became frightened and started to sink. At this point Christ reached out his hand to save him, saying “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” It is precisely that moment, when Christ saves Peter, which is depicted in this panel: the moment of maximum drama in the episode. But worthy of separate mention is the figure of the young fisherman standing in the right-hand corner. Through his inclusion of this man, dressed in contemporary clothing, the artist gives the miraculous episode a humorous touch – perhaps a nod to Jesus’ ironic bemusement at Peter’s predicament.
