Three Apostles with Stick, Key and Axe

Discussion

FROM THE BARNES FOUNDATION’S CATALOG

This 15th-century Northern Renaissance painting by an unknown artist depicts three of the 12 apostles. James, son of Zebedee, is on the left side. He can be identified by his walking staff and by the scallop shells ornamenting his cloak and pilgrim's hat. The scallop shells are one of James's symbols because he was working on the seashore when he was called to follow Jesus. Peter is holding the Keys of Heaven and is dressed in a blue robe and a yellow mantle. He would become the first pope and is often depicted alongside symbols of the papacy. The apostle holding an axe could be Paul, Matthias, or Matthew; all three were beheaded and are often accompanied by axes in paintings.

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