3-041-151 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Initial S: Pentecost (leaf from a gradual), about 1330-1340. Additional Info:This large leaf originally from a Christian choir book shows Pentecost, the biblical episode in which the Holy Spirit (in the form of a dove) anoints Christ’s apostles so that they may speak all known languages and preach to the world. Saint Peter sits at center, holding the keys of his papal office, while the apostles to either side gesture and gaze at each other. The drama of the event is emphasized by the dove, representing the Holy Spirit, and the bright red rays of divine light that touch the apostles’ heads as small flames visible atop the radiant gold haloes.