The Conversion of Saul c. 1540

The School of Raphael made this oil on canvas painting titled ‘The Conversion of Saul’ which depicts a scene from the New Testament. The image shows the conversion to Christianity of Saul of Tarsus, later known as Paul the Apostle. A blinding light knocks Saul from his horse, while his companions react in shock and confusion. This piece likely dates to the sixteenth century, a time of religious upheaval in Europe, particularly with the rise of the Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Art became a tool for both sides to express their theological and political beliefs. The painting reflects the prevailing artistic and religious norms of its time, emphasizing divine intervention and the transformative power of faith. Close examination with historical documents would reveal more about how this piece may have functioned within specific religious or institutional contexts. Understanding the social conditions surrounding its creation helps us grasp its deeper meaning and cultural significance.