Conversion of Saint Paul

Peter Paul Rubens made this large sketch in preparation for the painting on the left. Although the final composition changed significantly, certain key elements are already present here: the men helping the stricken Paul in the foreground; the figure restraining his horse; and the startled dog beside them. Painted quickly, the sketch allowed Rubens to jot down initial ideas. These were later developed in a large drawing, also in The Courtauld. After completing The Conversion of Saint Paul, Rubens kept both sketch and drawing in his studio as possible models for future works.