Saint Peter

Saint Peter

Master E.S.

1455

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This drawing shows a robed figure kneeling on one knee, holding a book and a set of keys. The figure has a halo and a serious face, with two scrolls labeled "PATREM" and "FILIUS" curling around his head. His hands are clasped in prayer, and his long robe folds realistically over his body. The keys and scrolls are classic symbols for this figure, often linked to authority and faith. This is an old print, made by pressing ink into carved metal—a method called engraving. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this carved fine lines into metal to make prints.

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