Half-length Figure of St Paul in an Oval 1616 - 1668

This drawing by Antonio del Castillo y Saavedra portrays Saint Paul, his visage etched with the wisdom and weariness of his evangelical journey, clutching a sword. This sword is not merely an attribute; it’s a symbol of his martyrdom, of course, but also of the penetrating power of the Word he so fervently preached. Consider how often we see the sword in depictions of saints and warriors across centuries – from medieval tapestries to Renaissance paintings. The sword, initially a symbol of physical might, transforms into an emblem of spiritual strength, a potent force for conversion and unwavering faith. In ancient Mithraic cults, the sword was a tool of sacrifice and redemption, linking violence with salvation. This symbolism resonates even in modern contexts, where the sword might represent the battle against inner demons or societal injustices. It represents a continuous thread in the tapestry of human consciousness, echoing our deepest fears, hopes, and the eternal struggle between darkness and light.