17. The Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

Details

Russian, second half 19th century, Syzran
22.4 x 18.5 cms

Provenance:
Private collection, Germany.

Description:
The Apostles Peter and Paul are shown in full length.

Peter was the leader of the Apostles and the founder of the first Christian Church in Rome. Christ called Peter ‘rock’ (‘petra’ means rock): You are Peter, the Rock; and on this rock I will build my church… (Matthew 16:18). Apostle Paul holds a Gospel Book, as the author of the Epistles in the New Testament.

When Peter and Paul are depicted together, they symbolize the common founders of the Christian Church.

The Orthodox Church celebrates their feast day on June 29. According to tradition, both apostles died within the same hour on this day.