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    The language of symbols.

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    Attribute cabinet

    Two keys identify Saint Peter. In Perugino’s fresco, Christ gives them to him at the centre of the piazza.

    See Saint Peter
    The keys
    Pietro Perugino
    The keys
    Identification desk

    What can you see?

    Choose up to three clues to find figures in the collection that share them all.

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    Symbol index

    Results · 73
    Objects · Symbols

    Keys

    Keys to heaven, symbol of papal authority

    The apostle Saint PeterEl Greco · 1610–1614
    1/3

    How to recognise it

    Two keys—often crossed—signal Saint Peter and papal authority.

    Look for an elderly apostle with keys at his side or in hand.

    Possible confusions
    • Do not confuse with sword (Paul) or book alone (evangelists).

    Associated figures

    Saint Peter

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    Compare figures
    Saint Peter vs Saint PaulSaint George vs Archangel MichaelSaint Anthony vs Saint Joseph
    How to read an image
    1. Look at what the figure holds and how it is used.
    2. Study the clothes. A habit, armour or dalmatic can help establish a role.
    3. Compare the object and the clothing with the action in the scene.