Three Apostles, Center One with Sword

Discussion

FROM THE BARNES FOUNDATION’S CATALOG

This is one of a series of four paintings of the 12 apostles painted by an unknown Northern Renaissance artist. On the left side of the painting is James, son of Alphaeus, also known as James the Just. He is often represented with a fuller's club, the instrument of his martyrdom. The central figure could be Paul, who is often dressed in red and green and depicted holding a sword. However, there is another figure in this series of paintings who could be Paul, so this figure cannot be definitively identified. Finally, the apostle on the right is likely Jude, who is at times accompanied by a club, as seen here.

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