Who painted Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula?

Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula was painted by Ludovico Carracci in 1601.

Where can I see Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula?

Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula is held by Museo del Prado.

What movement is Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula?

Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula?

Museum-quality prints of Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula

Ludovico Carracci , 1601

Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Ludovico Carracci. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Saint Francis of Assisi in the Portiuncula, a 1601 oil painting by Ludovico Carracci, exemplifies the early Baroque Italian movement. The work depicts a religious scene, characterized by dramatic lighting and expressive gestures, distinguishing it from the preceding Mannerist style.

Subject & Meaning

Contrary to the title's suggestion, the central figures appear to represent a family group (a woman in pink with two children and a shirtless, long-haired man), surrounded by angels. Below, a robed figure, likely Saint Francis, kneels in fervent prayer, his intense, shadowed face conveying deep devotion.

Technique & Style

Carracci employs broad, expressive gestures and a striking chiaroscuro effect, where flickering light contrasts with deep shadows, aiming to evoke spiritual emotion. This technique contributes to the revival of Italian art, moving away from Mannerism's intricacies.

History & Provenance

Created in 1601, the painting is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection, though its historical ownership trajectory before entering the museum is not detailed here.

Context

Emerging in the early 17th century, this work reflects the Baroque's emphasis on emotional depth and naturalism, aligning with the artistic shifts in early Baroque Italy, particularly in Bologna, Carracci's hometown.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Ludovico Carracci

Ludovico (or Lodovico) Carracci ( kə-RAH-chee, UK also kə-RATCH-ee, Italian: ; 21 April 1555 – 13 November 1619) was an Italian early-Baroque painter, etcher, and printmaker from Bologna.