The Conversion of St. Paul, This is a depiction of the events that transpired in the book of Acts, verses 1-31. Saul of Tarsus was travelling to Damascus, apparently with the intention of imprisoning out-spoken Christians, when a light appeared to him and threw him from his horse. What is described as "the voice of God" spoke to him, asking why he was persecuting Christians and commanding him to go to Damascus and wait in prayer. Saul was blinded by this light and led by the hand to his destination. This painting depicts the moment that the light shines down and the chaos of Saul, his accompanying soldiers and their horses. An angel with a sword is seen emerging from the mass of clouds and light., c. 1520

 Item — Box: 280
Identifier: spc-mss0088-s39-i0223

Staff Only
The Conversion of St. Paul, This is a depiction of the events that transpired in the book of Acts, verses 1-31. Saul of Tarsus was travelling to Damascus, apparently with the intention of imprisoning out-spoken Christians, when a light appeared to him and threw him from his horse. What is described as "the voice of God" spoke to him, asking why he was persecuting Christians and commanding him to go to Damascus and wait in prayer. Saul was blinded by this light and led by the hand to his destination. This painting depicts the moment that the light shines down and the chaos of Saul, his accompanying soldiers and their horses. An angel with a sword is seen emerging from the mass of clouds and light.

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Scope and Contents

Vanderbilt photo identifier: SC.MSS.088.GERM.0219; Public Notes:

Dates

  • Creation: c. 1520

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

This collection may be viewed only in the reading room of Special Collections in the Jean and Alexander Heard Library. Collections should be requested 2-3 days prior to visiting in order to facilitate easier access. For questions or to request a collection, contact specialcollections@vanderbilt.edu.

Biographical / Historical

Subjects: Conversion; Light; Religious Subjects; Saint Paul; Angels; School: German; Style period: Northern Renaissance; Technique: painting (technique); Work type: paintings

Full Extent

1 Items : Image Work Type: book clipping ; Image height (in.): 9; Image width (in.): 6.3in.

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

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