Christus overhandigt de sleutels aan Petrus (linker deel) 1680 - 1694

This print by Jean Pesne, likely made in France in the late 17th century, depicts Christ handing the keys to Saint Peter. The keys symbolize Peter's role as the first Pope and the foundation of the Catholic Church. Prints like this played a crucial role in disseminating religious imagery during the period of the Counter-Reformation, reinforcing the power and authority of the Church. Note the classical architectural elements in the background. These allude to the Vatican's self-conscious embrace of the Roman Empire's legacy. The print would have been part of a larger visual culture used to inspire faith and reinforce social hierarchies. Understanding the social context of this image requires looking at the history of religious institutions, the role of art in shaping beliefs, and the political dynamics of 17th-century Europe. Scholarly resources in art history and religious studies can provide valuable information to reveal the complex relationship between art, religion, and power.