Conversion of Paul

About this work

This etching shows Saul falling off his horse on a dusty road. A bright light blinds him while soldiers nearby react in panic. His arms fly up as he’s thrown from the saddle. Callot made this using two etching techniques on one plate: drypoint for sharp lines and etching for shading. The mix gives the scene jagged edges and soft shadows, making the chaos feel real. Look close and you’ll see tiny details in the armor and faces. Check out another Callot etching, The Temptation of St. Anthony, for more of his dramatic style.