Artwork
Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata
Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Master of Staffolo. It dates from 1420 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1420 oil painting by the Master of Staffolo portrays a pivotal moment in the legend of Saint Francis of Assisi. The work is part of the collection at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Francis kneeling in prayer, receiving the stigmata (wounds mirroring Christ's crucifixion) while holding a cross. The serene, natural setting underscores the contemplative and devotional nature of the scene.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the work showcases meticulous attention to detail, evident in the textured folds of Francis' robe and the lush foliage. This technique imbues the scene with depth and realism.
History & Provenance
Created in 1420, the painting's provenance prior to its acquisition by the Philadelphia Museum of Art is not detailed here. It remains attributed to the Master of Staffolo, a designation indicating the artist's identity is unknown but their style distinctive enough to group works under this name.
Context
This painting reflects the religious devotion and artistic trends of the early 15th century, particularly the focus on saintly miracles and the emerging use of oil paints to achieve realism and depth in religious subjects.
Artist & collection
Artist
This unknown painter from the early 1400s made small religious panels full of sharp folds and gold-leaf halos.
![The Papacy Offered to Saint Gregory the Great [?], by Fra Angelico](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/fra-angelico--the-papacy-offered-to-saint-gregory-the-great--6c28505dc47c9093-w320.webp)
