Final answer:
The painting by Caravaggio is titled The Conversion of Saint Paul, which exhibits his signature use of tenebrism, a technique highlighting the stark contrast between light and dark to dramatize scenes. His realistic approach to Biblical narratives transformed the portrayal of religious subjects, securing his place as a master of the Baroque period and strongly influencing the Caravaggisti.
Step-by-step explanation:
The title of the painting by Caravaggio depicting the pivotal moment in the life of Saul of Tarsus is The Conversion of Saint Paul. This artwork showcases Caravaggio's hallmark style, which includes the dramatic use of tenebrism—a technique characterized by stark contrasts between darkness and light. The painting captures the moment Saul is surrounded by a blinding light, leading to his spiritual transformation.
Caravaggio employs this interplay of light and shadow to create a sense of volume and define the characters within the scene, such as the soldiers and the uncontrollable horse. Saul is focused upon with light strongly highlighting him, signifying his conversion, while the horse and other figures are relegated to the darkness, enhancing the narrative of chaos and divine intervention.
Caravaggio was known for his realistic depictions of biblical events, often painting models taken from everyday life, which secularized religious subjects and shocked contemporary viewers. His technique was influential to a host of followers known as Caravaggisti, and his works, including The Conversion of St. Paul, are considered masterpieces of the Baroque period. These paintings emphasize life-changing, divine moments, which were a favorite subject among Baroque artists.