Matthew

Apostle and traditionally the author of the first gospel. He was a tax gatherer of Capernaum who, as he sat at the custom-house, was called by Christ to follow him. As one of the evangelists his attribute is a winged person resembling an angel, one of the 'apocalyptic beasts'. It may be seen dictating as Matthew writes. He has book, pen and inkhorn, the attributes of the writer. As an apostle he holds a purse, a reminder of his previous occupation. According to legend he was martyred by beheading and may therefore have an axe or halberd. Among Matthew's several inscriptions are 'Sanctam ecclesiam catholicam; sanctorum communionem'- 'The Holy Catholic Church; the communion of saints', from the Apostles' Creed; 'Primum querite regnum dei'—'Set your mind on God's kingdom before everything else' (Matt. 6:33); 'Liber generationis Jesu Christi'—'A table of the descent of Jesus Christ' (Matt. 1: 1). The calling of Matthew (Matt. 9:9). 'Jesus saw a man named Matthew at his seat in the custom-house; and he said to him, "Follow me". And Matthew rose and followed him'. Matthew is seen sitting at his desk. Money lies on it. Taxpayers come to him. Christ is present with perhaps Peter and Andrew. Matthew looks up at him or may be in the act of rising from his seat.