Saint Paul of the Cross – The Apostle of the Crucified Love

This portrait of Saint Paul of the Cross captures the founder of the Passionist Order in quiet contemplation, holding a wooden crucifix close to his heart. His black Passionist habit bears the emblem “Jesu XPI Passio” — the sign of a life wholly devoted to the love and suffering of Christ. The intricate gold-ornate halo behind him symbolizes divine wisdom and the radiant peace found through the Cross.

Rendered in award-winning photorealistic detail with delicate Baroque light and Renaissance undertones, this image evokes the solemn beauty of 18th-century Italy — a window into the heart of a man who found glory not in comfort, but in sacrifice.

Born Paolo Francesco Danei in 1694 in Ovada, Italy, Saint Paul of the Cross founded the Passionist Congregation, dedicated to proclaiming the love of Christ Crucified. After forty days of solitude and fasting, he wrote the Rule of the Passionists, uniting contemplation and active ministry. His preaching stirred hearts across Italy, drawing sinners to repentance and consoling the afflicted. He died peacefully in 1775 in Rome, leaving behind a spiritual legacy that continues through the Passionist Order.

Symbolism in the Art:

• The Crucifix – Paul’s lifelong devotion to the Passion of Christ and redemptive suffering.

• The Passionist Emblem – “Jesu XPI Passio,” meaning The Passion of Jesus Christ, symbolizing the heart of divine love.

• Golden Ornate Halo – Represents wisdom, holiness, and victory through the Cross.

• Candlelit Tones – The Baroque-style light reminds the viewer that divine love shines most brightly amid darkness.

Perfect For:
Devotional spaces, chapels, Passionist communities, and those seeking to meditate on the mystery of the Cross.

Product Details:

• Digital download only

• High-resolution PNG (portrait aspect ratio)

• Suitable for print sizes up to 16x20 inches

• Watermark-free, museum-quality finish

Feast Day: October 19
Patronage: Passionist Congregation, Evangelists, Spiritual Directors