Artwork
Der hl. Franziskus von Assisi
Der hl. Franziskus von Assisi is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Johann Friedrich Gerhard. It dates from 1721 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1721 by Johann Friedrich Gerhard, this oil painting titled *Der hl. Franziskus von Assisi* is part of the collection of Munich’s Alte Pinakothek. The work presents a solitary figure against a darkened backdrop, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to focus attention on the saint’s contemplative pose and the symbolic objects he holds.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is identified as Saint Francis of Assisi, rendered with long hair and a beard. He cradles a human skull in his right hand, a traditional memento mori reminding viewers of mortality and the saint’s renunciation of worldly concerns. His upward gaze and solemn expression convey a meditative reflection on spiritual transcendence.
Technique & Style
Gerhard employs chiaroscuro to model the saint’s features, allowing the illuminated face and hair to emerge from the surrounding darkness. The dark clothing recedes, while the light falls on the skull and the saint’s hands, creating a three‑dimensional effect. The palette is restrained, emphasizing tonal variation over coloristic richness.
History & Provenance
The painting was completed in the early eighteenth century and entered the Alte Pinakothek’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains on display. Its attribution to Gerhard is based on stylistic analysis and archival records linking the work to his output in the Bavarian region.
Artist & collection
Artist
Johann Friedrich Gerhard (1695–1748) was an artist, born in Middle Franconia.
