Artwork
Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata
Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Italian 15th Century. It dates from 1475 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The work is a woodcut print titled *Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata*. It portrays the moment when the Franciscan saint is marked with the wounds of Christ. The composition centers the figure with arms outstretched, surrounded by a radiant halo, while a modest architectural backdrop and a bare landscape complete the scene.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures the mystical encounter described in the hagiography of Saint Francis, emphasizing his spiritual surrender and divine union. The outstretched posture and luminous aura convey both the physical reception of the stigmata and the saint’s openness to suffering as a path to holiness.
Technique & Style
Executed in woodcut, the print relies on carved lines and stark contrasts. Bold, unmodulated strokes define the figure and architectural elements, while the simplified shapes produce a clear, immediate visual impact. The tactile quality of the wood grain adds a subtle texture that reinforces the work’s directness.
Context
Woodcut printing was a common medium for disseminating religious imagery during the Renaissance, when devotional prints circulated among both clergy and lay audiences. The piece reflects the period’s interest in accessible visual narratives that combined devotional content with a straightforward, humanist visual language.
Artist & collection
Artist
This anonymous Italian engraver from the 1490s carved images that could be peeled apart like paper dolls—each knot in the "First Knot" print was cut from a single sheet so you could lift the loops right off the page.
![The Destruction of the Egyptian Idols [verso], by Italian 15th Century](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/italian-15th-century--the-destruction-of-the-egyptian-idols-verso--646d3c2b8098cfee-w320.webp)
![The Flight into Egypt [recto], by Italian 15th Century](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/italian-15th-century--the-flight-into-egypt-recto--8f4d5275d7f90f98-w320.webp)
