Evangelists · Apostles · Most commonly confused
Saint John the Evangelist vs Saint Matthew
Youthful eagle evangelist vs tax-collector with winged man.
Comparison table
ASaint John the Evangelist
BSaint Matthew
At a glance
- John: youngest look, mystical Gospel, no money
- Matthew: angel symbol, financial attributes, older
- John: Apocalypse on Patmos; Matthew: Calling narrative
Why they get confused
Both evangelists writing at desks in Renaissance Gospel cycles.
Similarities
- Desk and quill
- Gospel manuscript
- Halos in apostolic company
In the museum or church
Apostolic galleries mix all Twelve — evangelist symbols trump beard length.
Quick recognition
- Coins → Matthew.
- Eagle → John.
Common mistakes
- Beard length used instead of symbols
Related comparisons
All comparisons
John the Evangelist vs John the Baptist
The youthful evangelist with a book vs the desert prophet with a lamb.
Saint James the Greater vs Saint John the Evangelist
Pilgrim shell and staff vs youthful evangelist with book.
Saint Matthew vs Saint John the Evangelist
Winged man or money bag vs eagle and youthful face.