Reading
Objects in the hands
Peter in El Greco’s portrait carries keys. Van Dyck’s John directs his attention to a cup. Observe whether the hand wraps around a shaft, supports the hollow base of a vessel or makes a gesture. These are specific differences between the two paintings that can be described without guessing ages.
A question passed along the table
At supper John 13 describes Peter signalling to the beloved disciple so that he will ask Christ who is meant. Instead of searching for keys in every supper, look for this chain of attention. Artists arrange the diners differently, so the relationship must be seen in each work.
Key takeaway
A familiar saint may exchange a portrait attribute for a narrative action.
Visual study
What links this portrait of John to the legend of the poisoned drink?
Choose one of the three areas of the artwork.
View the complete works and their labels
One hand rests on the chest. The keys lie lower down at the opposite side of the portrait.
El GrecoJohn turns his head towards the cup held near his hands.
Anthony van Dyck · c. 1618–1620 · Public domainGroups of diners turn and gesture around Christ. The lines of the ceiling converge near his head.
Leonardo da Vinci · Santa Maria delle Grazie, MilanOther depictions of these apostles
Study gallery
Saint Peter
Study notesLook for the keys. In scenes of the denial, a rooster or Peter’s hands drawn to his chest can identify the same apostle.
Key attributes
Keys
Saint Peter
Study notesLook for the keys. In scenes of the denial, a rooster or Peter’s hands drawn to his chest can identify the same apostle.
Key attributes
Keys
Saint Peter
Study notesLook for the keys. In scenes of the denial, a rooster or Peter’s hands drawn to his chest can identify the same apostle.
Key attributes
Keys
Apostle study cards
Apostle profile
Saint Peter
Fisherman and spokesman of the Twelve.
Memory hook: Keys held or received
Visual examples
Saint Peter
Study notesFisherman and spokesman of the Twelve.
Key attributes
Keys
Saint Peter
Study notesFisherman and spokesman of the Twelve.
Key attributes
Keys
Apostle profile
Saint John the Evangelist
A son of Zebedee traditionally identified with the beloved disciple and the fourth evangelist.
Memory hook: An eagle alongside a writer
Visual examples
Saint John the Evangelist
Study notesA son of Zebedee traditionally identified with the beloved disciple and the fourth evangelist.
Saint John the Evangelist
Study notesA son of Zebedee traditionally identified with the beloved disciple and the fourth evangelist.
Practice
Answer notebook
0 / 1 answeredMore practice
Who is this apostle?
Scan attributes first — then choose a name.
Quick check
Quick check
Attribute checklist
Tap each attribute once you can picture it in art for this lesson.