Paul Preaching at Athens
1707
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1707
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving shows a crowded scene with a man standing on a raised platform, preaching to a group of people. Some listeners are sitting, others stand, and a few look skeptical or confused. In the background, there’s a grand building with columns and statues on top. The lines are sharp and detailed, creating shadows and texture. The text at the bottom says this is based on a Bible story—Paul preaching in Athens. The artist copied it from a design by Raphael, but this is their own engraved version. If you like this style, check out engraving to see how artists use lines to make depth.