Bekering van Paulus 1705 - 1748

Editor: So, this is Willem de Broen's "Conversion of Paul," an engraving that the Rijksmuseum dates sometime between 1705 and 1748. It's incredibly dramatic, all these figures thrown into chaos. I’m initially struck by the light, that burst from the sky—it really pulls you in. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Ah, yes, Willem de Broen captures a real turning point—literally and figuratively. Think about it, the scene depicts Saul's transformation into Paul, a pivotal moment in religious history. I imagine De Broen wrestling with his own convictions while working on this, trying to capture something transcendent in the turmoil. What does the landscape itself communicate to you, that tumultuous backdrop? Editor: I hadn’t really considered the landscape. It's almost secondary to the figures, but now that you mention it, the swirling clouds and rugged terrain definitely amplify that sense of upheaval. Was De Broen known for landscapes? Curator: Interestingly, yes, primarily, but here it serves as a stage for something greater. But, beyond the story, observe the engraver's hand, those meticulous lines building up such dynamism. Do you get a sense of movement, of force? Editor: Absolutely. The horses seem to rear up, the figures are thrown off balance, the light itself seems to be vibrating. It’s all a bit overwhelming. Curator: Precisely! Perhaps de Broen intended that feeling of being overwhelmed. The baroque does love the drama, right? I see in this work de Broen finding clarity within disorder, an interesting reflection of faith itself, would'nt you agree? Editor: That makes perfect sense. I went in thinking of it only as a biblical scene, but now I’m seeing it as this exploration of inner change. Curator: And that, my friend, is the real magic of art—its ability to evolve with our understanding.