Paul before Agrippa from a set of Scenes from the Life of Saint Paul

Paul before Agrippa from a set of Scenes from the Life of Saint Paul is a monumental textile originally conceived by the celebrated Renaissance master Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio or Santi). Although the artist died in 1520, the extraordinary influence of his designs led to subsequent weaving campaigns throughout Europe. This specific piece was executed in fine wool and silk between 1595 and 1605. The technical sophistication of the weaving is evidenced by its density, measured at 14-15 warps per inch (6-7 per centimeter), which allowed the weavers to accurately render the complex figural compositions created by Raphael’s workshop.

The textile illustrates a pivotal moment from the Book of Acts, depicting Saint Paul defending his beliefs before King Herod Agrippa II and his sister Berenice. The work is characteristic of High Renaissance dramatic narrative, filled with detailed groupings of men and women gathered in the presence of the powerful figures. The setting is established using classical architecture and the inclusion of prominent military Tents, signaling the scene’s significance as a state hearing or tribunal.

The original cartoons for this famed tapestry series were commissioned by Pope Leo X around 1515 for the Sistine Chapel. The widespread popularity of Raphael’s designs meant that both prints and subsequent textile versions circulated extensively across the continent, solidifying the artist’s reputation long after his death. This intricate work resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, providing a crucial example of how the grand narrative style of Italian painting was translated into the luxury medium of textile art, thus continuing the legacy of Raphael’s foundational contributions to visual culture well into the 17th century.