Martelaarschap van Paulus 1576 - 1646

"Martelaarschap van Paulus" (The Martyrdom of Paul) is an engraving by Hendrick Goltzius from 1576-1646, now housed at the Rijksmuseum. The image depicts a dynamic and detailed scene of the Apostle Paul's execution in Rome. Goltzius, known for his mastery of engraving and his powerful use of light and shadow, portrays a tense atmosphere filled with drama and violence. The detailed depictions of the figures and their expressions create a powerful visual impact. The scene is set in a bustling city, showcasing the artist's ability to render a sense of depth and perspective. The inscription below the image, a quote from a Latin poem, further elaborates on the scene and emphasizes the religious context.