Lateral Panel 1360

Giovanni da Milano painted this panel, sometime in the 14th century, depicting two figures bearing a cross. John the Baptist and Saint Peter stand together in a golden hued setting that invites reflection on their combined symbolism. The cross, of course, transcends its immediate religious significance. In antiquity, it was a symbol of intersection and decision, appearing in various forms in ancient cultures. Saint Peter, holding the keys, symbolizes authority and access to the divine. We see echoes of this motif in earlier Roman depictions of Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions, holding keys to the gates of the year. In this panel, Peter is juxtaposed with John the Baptist, a figure of prophecy and moral fortitude, connecting earthly authority and spiritual insight. The cross uniting them speaks to a deeper, subconscious yearning for order amidst chaos, a visual anchor that offers solace. These symbols resonate even now, reminding us of humanity’s enduring quest for meaning.