Plaque with Christ Presenting the Keys to Saint Peter and the Law to Saint Paul

Unknown

ca. 1150–1200 · Elephant ivory · The Cloisters

The theme of Christ handing the keys of heaven to Saint Peter and the law to Saint Paul, which originated in fourth-century Rome, refers to the Gospel of Matthew (16:18): "I also tell you that you are Peter and on this rock I will build my church." At the same time, it highlights the importance of Saint Paul’s mission to the Gentiles. In this powerful interpretation, a domed structure, perhaps representing the heavenly Jerusalem, replaces the rock on which Christ is depicted more frequently. The dramatic expressions, the fluid clinging drapery, and the openwork carving are characteristic of German Romanesque ivory carving. The inscription, including the date 1200, is of later origin.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1150–1200

Medium

Elephant ivory

Culture

German

Department

The Cloisters

Credit line

The Cloisters Collection, 1979