Saint Paul at The Palazzo Braschi, Rome

myminifactory

These two sculptures were commissioned by monks from Saint Paul's Basilica for Mochi, with the intention of placing them on either side of the altar. However, both projects were turned down by the commission and later purchased by Pope Alexander VII in 1657 for placement outside Rome's Porta del Popolo. In 1980, due to natural erosion, the sculptures were removed from their outdoor location and relocated to the Palazzo Braschi. Paul the Apostle, also known as Saint Paul or Saul of Tarsus, was a key figure who spread the Christian message to the world in the 1st century. As one of the most influential figures of the Apostolic Age, he established several churches in Asia Minor and Europe between the mid-30s and mid-50s AD. By leveraging his status as both a Jew and a Roman citizen, Paul was able to effectively preach to both Jewish and Roman communities.