De heilige Petrus en gelovigen 1660 - 1680

"De heilige Petrus en gelovigen" (Saint Peter and Believers) is an etching by Marcantonio Bellavia, dating from 1660 - 1680, now in the Rijksmuseum. The etching depicts Saint Peter, holding a large key, a symbol of his authority over the gates of Heaven. His right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing as he appears to address a group of faithful believers below. The depiction of Saint Peter, with his dramatic pose and the emphasis on the key, highlights his importance as the first Pope and the keeper of the keys to Heaven. The detailed etching, with its fine lines and shading, creates a sense of depth and realism, while the group of believers, gazing up at Peter, reflects the power of his message.