Saint Peter c. 1507

Giovanni Antonio da Brescia's "Saint Peter," a 16th century engraving, depicts the apostle in a standing pose, holding the keys to Heaven in his hand, a common symbol of his role as the first Pope. Saint Peter's attire and posture convey a sense of authority and dignity, while the detailed rendering of his beard and other features reflects the artist's skillful use of line and shading. The engraving was likely produced as a devotional image, intended to inspire religious contemplation. It exemplifies the High Renaissance's embrace of classical influences and a renewed interest in naturalistic depiction.