Saint Paul Shipwrecked on the Island of Melita

Philip Galle after Jan van der Straet

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a group of people gathered around a fire on a coastal landscape. The central scene is dominated by a fire, with individuals gathered around it, some tending to the fire, while others are engaged in various activities such as carrying and presenting goods. The sea forms a backdrop to the right with a large ship. The left side of the image shows an architectural structure where more figures can be seen interacting. The landscape includes barren trees. The detailed linework and shading offer a sense of depth and texture characteristic of the illustrative engraving style.