Saints Peter, Martha, Mary Magdalen, and Leonard. Artist: Correggio (Antonio Allegri) (Italian, Correggio, active by 1514-died 1534 Correggio). Dimensions: 87 1/4 x 63 3/4 in. (221.6 x 161.9 cm). Date: ca. 1515.This is an early work by one of the most original geniuses of the Renaissance. Commissioned for a church in Correggio's hometown, it depicts four saints chosen by the patron, Melchiore Fassi: Peter, with his keys; Martha, her dragon; Mary Magdalen, her pot of ointment; and Leonard, with his fetters. Each stands separately, absorbed in his or her own thoughts. In this altarpiece, Correggio explored ideas he admired in the work of Leonardo da Vinci--in particular, the elegantly choreographed poses of the figures softly lit against a dense copse of trees (note the woodpecker). Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.