Two French Oak Panels With Saint John And Saint Paul, 17th Century

2 very pretty panels representing the evangelists John and Paul, Saint Paul: he is represented with a sword. The sword recalls the means of his martyrdom: he was beheaded in Rome in 67 AD. Saint John: According to legend, John the Evangelist received a cup of poisoned wine which he drank without harming himself. Emblem of the tale, John's chalice symbolizes the Christian faith which prevails over death, represented by the serpent.

Both panels come from the same piece of furniture or a chest.
Beautiful dark patina.
Dimensions: 44x22 cm.
Condition: very good. Small chip on the top left side of the St John panel.