Saint Paul preaching in Athens 1543 - 1553

Editor: So, here we have Andrea Schiavone's engraving, "Saint Paul Preaching in Athens," made sometime between 1543 and 1553. The hatching is very dense and dramatic, giving it a moody feel, almost like a storm is brewing as Saint Paul speaks. What symbols do you see emerging from this print? Curator: This is a potent image of conversion, isn’t it? Note how Schiavone positions Paul beneath the fluted column, a remnant of pagan Athens, but Paul’s gesture—raising his hand, exposing his bare foot—speaks to a disruption of the classical order. Do you notice how the crowd is composed? Editor: Yes, some figures seem contemplative, like the woman with a child in the foreground, while others are leaning in with a sense of skeptical curiosity. Their faces aren't idealized, but rather have distinct and human characteristics, suggesting a connection to the real people of Athens. Curator: Precisely. That tension you observe is key. It is not just about converting pagans to a new belief, it suggests psychological or emotional unrest through this disruption, something Schiavone excelled at. And his decision to depict such raw emotions and varied reactions highlights the challenge of religious persuasion. Paul, then, isn't just preaching; he is engaging in a complex dialogue with their pre-existing beliefs. How do you think his choice of Athens, a known center of philosophical debate, influences the scene’s atmosphere? Editor: Knowing that Athens was a place of vibrant intellectual exchange makes this scene even more charged. The varied reactions of the figures become almost symbolic of the clash of differing worldviews, as they try to interpret the meaning of the events that unfold. Curator: Exactly! This print captures not only a pivotal historical event, but it embodies an ongoing internal and cultural negotiation, full of symbols. Thank you. Editor: I’ve certainly learned more about the visual language and depth behind this compelling artwork!