The Conversion of Saint Paul

The Conversion of Saint Paul by Spinello Aretino

The Conversion of Saint Paul, created in 1395 by Spinello Aretino, is a significant example of late 14th-century Italian painting. Executed in tempera on wood with a gold ground, the work exemplifies the Gothic style prevalent in Tuscany during this period. Spinello Aretino, born Spinello di Luca Spinelli, was an influential painter known for his dynamic compositions and expressive figures. His work contributed to the transition from the Byzantine style to the more naturalistic approaches that characterized the early Renaissance. The painting captures the dramatic moment of Saint Paul's conversion, a popular subject that allowed artists to explore themes of divine intervention and personal transformation. Spinello's use of gold ground not only enhances the visual impact but also reflects the spiritual significance of the scene.

"The Conversion of Saint Paul" by Spinello Aretino, created in 1395, is a tempera on wood painting with a gold ground that depicts the biblical moment of Saint Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus. The artwork exemplifies the Gothic style with its use of vivid colors and intricate detailing, characteristic of late 14th-century Italian religious art.