Who painted Saint Paul?

Saint Paul was painted by Jacques de Gheyn II in 1589.

Where can I see Saint Paul?

Saint Paul is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Saint Paul?

Saint Paul is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Saint Paul

Jacques de Gheyn II , 1589

Saint Paul is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jacques de Gheyn II. It dates from 1589 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Jacques de Gheyn II’s 1589 engraving depicts Saint Paul as the central figure, rendered on laid paper. The print belongs to the late‑sixteenth‑century tradition of religious imagery produced for devotional or illustrative purposes.

Subject & Meaning

The composition focuses on the apostle Paul, emphasizing his role as a key figure in early Christianity. By presenting him alone, the work invites contemplation of his theological contributions and martyrdom, common themes in Counter‑Reformation visual culture.

Technique & Style

Executed with fine lines of copper‑plate engraving, the image demonstrates a high level of detail that creates a realistic surface texture. The use of laid paper, with its characteristic ribbed pattern, provides a subtle background that enhances the crispness of the incised lines.

History & Provenance

Created when de Gheyn was still in his twenties, the print reflects the early maturity of his craft. It circulated among collectors of religious prints in the Dutch Republic, though specific ownership records are limited.

Context

The work emerges from the Dutch Golden Age, a period when printmaking served both as a means of disseminating religious ideas and as a commercial enterprise. Engravings like this one were often used to supplement books or as standalone devotional images.