Raphael, Plate 88, represents the later event, when Christ says, "Feed my sheep," but Peter has evidently just received the keys. The sheep are actually present, as symbols, to make clear the moment selected by the artist. (John 21:17.)
THE TRANSFIGURATION.
Raphael, Plate 89, has given upon one canvas, and that one of the most famous in the world, the Transfiguration, and that which took place at the same time at the foot of the mountain. (Luke 9:28-36, and Mark 9:14-29.) Plate 90 is a part of the same picture. Compare the details of both of these plates with the scriptural account! No artist ever packed more literal and spiritual truth into a single canvas.
Shortly after the Transfiguration Jesus talked with his disciples about true greatness. By way of illustration "He took a little child in his arms and said unto them, Whosoever shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." (Mark 9:36, Matt. 18:4.)
Ballheim, Plate 97, suggests this event.
