Download image:
Italian School
17th century
The Conversion of Saul
Pen and brown ink and wash on laid paper; squared for transfer using pen and brown ink and red chalk.
9 1/16 x 8 5/8 inches (230 x 219 mm)
The Joseph F. McCrindle Collection.
2009.366
Provenance:
Joseph F. McCrindle, New York (McCrindle collection no. A0518A).
Summary:
This anonymous Italian drawing of Paul the Apostle shows him as the Pharisee Saul, falling from his horse in the act of miraculous conversion from a persecutor of Christians to an Apostle. According to the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 9, 22, 26), Saul was on his way from Jerusalem to Damascus to arrest Jesus' followers, when he saw a blinding light and heard a divine voice. In the drawing, Saul's companions have not yet recognized his transformation; rather, Saul's individual communication with God is stressed in the center of the composition. The drawing was gridded for transfer first in red chalk and then in brown ink, suggesting it served in preparation for a larger painting, or possibly a tapestry.
Associated names:
McCrindle, Joseph F., former owner.
Catalog link:
Artist page:
School:
Century:
Classification:
Department: