Cornelius laat apostel Petrus bij zich roepen 1697

"Cornelius laat apostel Petrus bij zich roepen," or Cornelius summons the apostle Peter, is an engraving of unknown date, created by an anonymous artist. The print depicts a scene from the Acts of the Apostles, a moment of cultural and religious exchange. This image encapsulates early Christian interactions with Roman figures, illustrating a pivotal narrative where Peter is called upon to meet Cornelius, a Roman centurion. The story navigates themes of divine guidance and the breaking down of cultural barriers, as Peter, initially hesitant to associate with non-Jews, is divinely instructed to embrace Cornelius. The act of baptizing Cornelius is a powerful symbol of inclusion, challenging the established norms of the time. It's a visual representation of the early church's struggle with and eventual embrace of a more universal identity. The emotional weight of this encounter is palpable, bridging divides and hinting at the complex negotiations of identity that characterized the spread of Christianity.