Petrus c. 1555 - 1565

This is an engraving of Petrus, made by an anonymous artist. Consider the history and context of religious imagery like this. The figure of Petrus, or Saint Peter, is a cornerstone of Christian identity, often represented with the keys to heaven. But what does it mean to depict a religious figure? The artist presents Petrus in a classical style, draped in robes, with careful attention to the fall of the fabric. Note the key he holds – a symbol of power, access, and divine authority. The image is not just a portrait but a statement about the Church's role and its perceived link between the earthly and divine realms. We may ask ourselves how such imagery reinforces established hierarchies, and how it shapes the beliefs and identities of its viewers. Religious art invites us to consider the interplay between faith, power, and representation.