Gidget Gein / Black Peter watercolor and gold leaf on paper 15" x 20" Framed: 20" x 26" (story below) PRICE ON REQUEST - EMAIL THE GALLERY

According to legend, Black Peter is a Moorish servant or slave who accompanies Saint Nicholas on his holiday travels. He is commonly depicted in the colorful pantaloons, feathered cap and ruffles of a medieval European palace attendant and is sometimes associated with Satan. Often portrayed as a mean and mischievous character, parents tell their children that if they have been good, Black Peter will bring gifts and sweets for Christmas; but if they have been bad, Pete will scoop them up, stuff them in his huge sack and spirit them away to Spain. The tradition of Black Peter has been criticized for racism and promoting offensive stereotypical views of Black people. This criticism has not led to changes in the tradition.