Description
Christ stands on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and calls the fishermen Peter and Andrew, who work from a small boat with a net full of fish. Duccio di Buoninsegna painted this scene between 1308 and 1311 for the rear predella of the Maestà in Siena Cathedral.
The work combines a traditional gold background with a rocky shore and closely observed water. Quiet but eloquent gestures convey the fishermen’s surprise and the beginning of a life-changing decision. The panel is now in the National Gallery of Art, Washington. The original location on the reverse of the Maestà shaped the meaning of this beginning of discipleship. There the episode formed one part of a larger narrative, read alongside other events of Christ’s public ministry and Passion.






