Paul before Festus (Paul before Gallio); Paul Blessing Converts at Corinth c. 16th century

Curator: This print by Pietro Santi Bartoli, made sometime between 1615 and 1700, depicts two scenes: "Paul before Festus" and "Paul Blessing Converts at Corinth". Editor: It's almost theatrical, isn’t it? The stark contrast between light and shadow really amplifies the drama, especially in those intense faces. Curator: Bartoli's technique involves a series of very fine lines to create form and depth; note how he uses hatching to define the drapery. It lends a very classical feel to these New Testament stories. Editor: Yes, and the symmetry! Each scene is a carefully constructed composition, balancing the figures in these really tight, self-contained spaces, like little stages of conversion and judgement. Curator: He clearly wants to show the power of Paul's words, how they sway people, even in very different settings, whether it’s the courtroom or a baptismal setting. Editor: The image tells a story, not just of conversion but of the artist's belief in the power of visual storytelling itself. Curator: I'd agree. Bartoli’s engraving makes us believe in the scene and, as the artist hoped, in the story, too.