Author: Raphael, 1483-1520
Image Title: Simon the Sorcerer
Scripture Reference:
Description: This image is based on a story in the New Testament apocryphal writing "Acts of Peter and Paul" or "Passion of Peter and Paul". Pictured is a debate said to have taken place in the Roman Forum. On the left is Simon Magus levitating, a practitioner of sorcery from Samaria who is mentioned in Acts 8:4-25 and whom the Gnostic heresy of Simonianism is named. To the right of him are two guards and Peter and Paul. On the right is Emperor Nero and his attendants. By Pietro Santi Bartoli (1635-1700) after Raphael (1483-1520), published by Giovanni Giacomo de Rossi (1627-1691). The text can be read "Simon's magic trick raises him to Heaven while Nero observes, Disciple Peter's prayer for falling".
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