Artwork
Saint Francis
Saint Francis is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Nuno Gonçalves. It dates from 1460 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Ancient Art.
About this work
Saint Francis is an oil painting by Portuguese Renaissance artist Nuno Gonçalves, dated around 1460.
Saint Francis is an oil painting by Portuguese Renaissance artist Nuno Gonçalves, dated around 1460. It was created on oak panel using oil paint.
The work shows Saint Francis in his monk habit, seated and holding a crucifix. The figure’s calm pose reflects the devotional style of the period. The painting is part of the museum’s collection of Portuguese Renaissance art.
You might also explore the National Museum of Ancient Art for more context.
Overview
Saint Francis is an oil on oak panel painting attributed to Portuguese Renaissance artist Nuno Gonçalves, created circa 1460. The work depicts the saint in a contemplative pose, highlighting the devotional themes of the period.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Saint Francis in his traditional monk's attire, seated and holding a crucifix. This representation emphasizes the saint's devotion and spiritual contemplation, aligning with the religious values of the time.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint on an oak panel, the painting showcases the devotional style characteristic of the Portuguese Renaissance. The calm, seated figure of Saint Francis reflects the period's emphasis on serene, introspective religious imagery.
History & Provenance
Attributed to Nuno Gonçalves, the painting is dated to around 1460. It is currently part of the collection at the National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon, Portugal.
Context
As part of the National Museum of Ancient Art's Portuguese Renaissance collection, the painting can be contextualized within the broader artistic and religious movements of 15th-century Portugal.
Artist & collection
Artist
Nuno Gonçalves (c. 1425 – c. 1491, fl. 1450–71) was court painter to Afonso V of Portugal from 1450 to 1471. Gonçalves is widely considered the most accomplished Portuguese painter of the 15th century. His surviving…
