St. Paul
Author: Unknown
Origin: Unknown
Dating: 18th century
Material: Oil on Canvas
Dimensions (cm): 71 x 87
Inv. no.: PD0057dep / PNA66691 / PD0730dep
Saul of Tarsus, also known as St. Paul, was one of the most influential writers in early Christianity. The influence that he exerted in Christian philosophy was fundamental in the initial propagation of the Gospel through the Roman Empire. St. Augustine developed the idea of Paul that salvation was based on faith and not on “the works of the Law”. Martin Luther’s interpretation of St. Paul’s works strongly influenced his doctrine of “sola fide”. His influence and legacy led to the creation of communities dominated by Gentile groups who worshiped the God of Israel, who followed the Jewish moral code but who abandoned the rites and obligations due to St. Paul’s teachings on the life and work of Jesus, based on his death and resurrection.
In 64 a.C., after the Great Fire of Rome, he was arrested and beheaded.
