Saint Paul Shipwrecked on the Island of Malta 1634

Willem Basse's 1634 etching "Saint Paul Shipwrecked on the Island of Malta" depicts the biblical story of Saint Paul's dramatic shipwreck, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the tumultuous scene. The etching portrays Saint Paul and his companions struggling to survive the raging waves as their ship crashes against the rocky shore. The composition emphasizes the chaotic nature of the event, with figures scattered across the foreground and the ship breaking apart in the background. Basse's detailed rendering of the figures and the tumultuous sea highlights the power of the storm and the resilience of the passengers. This work exemplifies Basse's expertise in printmaking, showcasing his ability to render both the dramatic and the delicate details of this pivotal event.