Peter, although on his knees, busy, and looking up to Jesus, is the dominant, not only the central figure of this scene. His portrait evokes robust simplicity, down-to-earth industriousness and practical sense. In his eyes, he carries a definite dose of mild skepticism. In contrast, Christ appears fainthearted, a hesitant petitioner rather than a fiery leader of disciples. Drawn mainly in profile to reinforce the impression of meek and gentle hesitation, the gesture of Jesus' right hand placed on Peter's shoulder considerably alters the overall impression of weakness and indetermination. The hand is both tender and heavy, and has a definite effect on Peter's behavior. His right eye -the eye closest to Jesus' hand- suddenly widens in amazement and understanding. Christ's silent call has penetrated his thick and round head and reached his heart. The third figure, Andrew, the brother of Simon, looks on, seemingly puzzled, but eventually he will follow Peter's decision. Dix refused to be called Christian. Asked to give a plausible reason for his refusal, he answered that in order to be a true Christian one had to follow Christ, but that he himself was not able to say yes to Jesus' invitation.
Related scripture reading: Matthew 4: 18-20
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