Keys of Saint Peter preview

Heraldry & Emblems

Keys of Saint Peter

Keys of Saint Peter draws on documented medieval form language to express authority, access, and faith.

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Represents

Historical Context

The keys of Saint Peter derive from Christ's words to Peter in Matthew and became a durable sign of Petrine and papal authority. Medieval ivory and other church art show Christ handing Peter the keys. This crossed-key emblem is a modern simplification of that documented iconography.

Provenance: Contemporary emblem based on medieval Petrine key imagery.

Context note: This is a contemporary interpretation of medieval Christian and pilgrimage material culture. Meanings and devotional uses varied by region and period; review historically or religiously specific applications with care.

Research status: reviewed · reviewed 24/07/2026

Sources

  1. Plaque with Christ Presenting the Keys to Saint Peter and the Law to Saint PaulGerman ivory plaque, ca. 1150-1200, object 1979.399. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Common Uses

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