Artwork

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers, by Antoine Caron, oil, 1570
Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers, by Antoine Caron, oil, 1570

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Antoine Caron. It dates from 1570 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

About this work

Overview

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers is a 1570 oil painting by Antoine Caron, a French artist associated with the School of Fontainebleau. It is now held in the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman in a red dress addressing a group on a raised platform before a cityscape. A baby sits on a blue cloth in the foreground. The scene likely represents a conversion or sermon, possibly of pagan philosophers by Dionysius the Areopagite.

Technique & Style

Caron's background as a glassmaker and illustrator is evident in the intricate composition and detailed textures. The work's dramatic style reflects its connection to the early Baroque movement.

History & Provenance

Created during the French Wars of Religion, the painting reflects Caron's experience in the Valois court. Its current location is the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Context

The painting's themes and style are informed by Caron's role in the turbulent Valois court and the religious tensions of the time.

Paisaje con arquitectura
Paisaje con arquitectura, León Picardo

Artist & collection

Portrait of Antoine Caron

Artist

Antoine Caron

Antoine Caron (1521–1599) was a French master glassmaker, illustrator, Northern Mannerist painter and a product of the School of Fontainebleau.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: J. Paul Getty Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers?

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers was painted by Antoine Caron in 1570.

Where can I see Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers?

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers is held by J. Paul Getty Museum.

What movement is Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers?

Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers?

Museum-quality prints of Dionysius the Areopagite Converting the Pagan Philosophers are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.