Prediche 1664 - 1680

"Prediche" (1664-1680) is an engraving by Gian Paolo Oliva depicting a scene of a sermon by the apostle Paul. The artwork is part of a series of illustrations created for a book of sermons delivered by Oliva in the Vatican Palace. The engraving depicts Paul addressing a crowd, with a banner overhead, and a coat of arms above that. The scene is set in an open-air setting, surrounded by columns, and the emphasis is on the power of Paul's words, as shown by the attentive expression on the faces of the audience. This piece exemplifies the artistic trends of the Baroque era, with its focus on drama, movement, and emotional intensity. It is a testament to the importance of religious oratory in the 17th century, highlighting the dynamic nature of Paul's preaching. This artwork can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY.