Artwork

Stigmatisierung des hl. Franziskus

Stigmatisierung des hl. Franziskus, by Unknown, unspecified, 1663
Stigmatisierung des hl. Franziskus, by Unknown, unspecified, 1663

Stigmatisierung des hl. Franziskus is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1663 and is held in the collection of the Alte Pinakothek. This painting depicts the Stigmatization of Saint Francis, a pivotal event in the saint's life.

About this work

Overview

This painting depicts the Stigmatization of Saint Francis, a pivotal event in the saint's life. The scene combines mystical and natural elements, conveying Francis's spiritual connection to the world.

Subject & Meaning

Saint Francis of Assisi, identifiable by his Franciscan robe and halo, is shown experiencing a profound spiritual moment.

Saint Francis of Assisi, identifiable by his Franciscan robe and halo, is shown experiencing a profound spiritual moment. The composition suggests his unity with diverse aspects of existence: nature (bird, sun), mortality (skull), knowledge (books), and possibly the divine (golden light). The stigmata, implied by the red strings rather than explicit wounds, symbolize his mystical identification with Christ.

Technique & Style

The work features a dramatic contrast between light and dark, with a vibrant, golden glow emanating from behind a radiant sun, set against a backdrop of ominous clouds. The use of red strings as a motif to connect Francis to his surroundings is a distinctive visual element, enhancing the sense of spiritual interconnectedness.

History & Provenance

No specific historical or provenance details are provided for this painting, suggesting it may not be a widely recognized or documented work within the public domain of art historical records.

Context

The depiction aligns with the broader artistic tradition of portraying Saint Francis's stigmatization, a subject popular in Christian art, especially during periods of renewed interest in Franciscan spirituality. The inclusion of a secondary figure reading by a riverbank may allude to the contemplative or the pursuit of knowledge in harmony with faith.

Legacy

Without specific details on the painting's origin or artist, its direct legacy or influence on subsequent artworks cannot be accurately assessed. However, as a representation of Saint Francis's stigmatization, it participates in a longstanding artistic and devotional tradition.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Alte Pinakothek

Museum

Alte Pinakothek

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Alte Pinakothek open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.