The Tears of Saint Peter (c1613) Ribera. Here is another treatment of the popular Counter-Reformation doctrine that penitence is a true sacrament and not simply a spiritual attitude as the Protestants argued. Emotion such as weeping is interpreted as repentance and this type of painting encouraged the viewer to reflect deeply on their own sins. We see Peter with clasped hands, his eyes up to the heavens, the weight of his guilt is obvious on his face.