Conversion of St. Paul n.d.

Francesco Coghetti made this drawing, Conversion of St. Paul, using pen and brown ink with brown wash. Coghetti created this drawing during a time of significant social change and religious revival in Europe. This work captures a pivotal moment in Christian history—Paul's transformation from persecutor to apostle. The dramatic scene, filled with falling figures and startled horses, conveys the emotional and physical upheaval of divine intervention. Notice how Coghetti uses light and shadow to emphasize Paul’s central role. The strong contrast heightens the sense of drama. But who are the other figures? Are they merely witnesses, or do they represent the broader societal reactions to radical change and new belief systems? The piece invites us to reflect on the nature of belief, the impact of sudden revelation, and the often turbulent path of transformation, both personal and communal.