The Conversion of Saint Paul

Art Historical Context

Spinello Aretino, a prominent Tuscan painter active in the late 14th century, captures the dramatic biblical moment of Saint Paul's conversion in this small tempera panel from around 1391–92. The scene depicts Saul—soon to become Paul—struck down by a divine light on the road to Damascus, as recounted in the Acts of the Apostles. Surrounded by startled soldiers, the fallen saint embodies a pivotal transformation from persecutor of Christians to devoted apostle, a popular subject in medieval religious art meant to inspire faith and reflection. Painted in tempera on wood with a shimmering gold ...