The Calling of St Peter 1609 - 1809

This is an anonymous painting depicting the biblical scene of the calling of St. Peter. Central to the composition, Christ gestures outward, signaling his divine invitation to Peter and his companions, fishermen mending their nets by the Sea of Galilee. This gesture, one of invitation and command, resonates across centuries of art. Think of Roman emperors extending their arms to address their legions or Renaissance depictions of divine figures bestowing blessings. Yet, here, the gesture carries a profound psychological weight. It's a pivotal moment of destiny, capturing the shift from earthly toil to spiritual awakening, a moment laden with both promise and the uncertainty of the unknown. The act of leaving behind one's worldly possessions and entering into a higher calling is a powerful force that engages us, perhaps subconsciously, to reflect on our own life choices. The symbol has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.