Eustache Le Sueur's "The Preaching of St. Paul at Ephesus" captures the moment of conversion in Ephesus, as followers burn their books in response to St. Paul's teachings. The painting exemplifies French classicism with its balanced composition and restrained palette.

Eustache Le Sueur's "The Preaching of St. Paul at Ephesus" depicts a scene from the Acts of the Apostles, where Paul's teachings led to the conversion of many Ephesians, who then publicly burned their books of magic. Le Sueur, a 17th-century French artist, was a founder of the French Academy of Painting and Sculpture and is known for his contributions to French classicism. His work often features religious and mythological subjects, rendered with a sense of clarity and order. The painting presents a theatrical composition, with St. Paul standing on a raised platform, addressing a crowd. His gesture is commanding, drawing the viewer's attention to the centre of the unfolding drama. Around him, figures react in various ways: some listen intently, others are in the act of casting their books into a fire, and still others appear to be in discussion or debate. The architectural setting, with its classical columns and arches, provides a backdrop that enhances the scene's gravity and historical context. The colour palette is restrained, with muted tones and subtle contrasts that contribute to the painting's overall sense of balance and harmony. The figures are rendered with careful attention to anatomy and drapery, reflecting Le Sueur's academic training and his commitment to classical ideals.