Artwork

The Stigmatization of Saint Francis

The Stigmatization of Saint Francis, by Orazio Gentileschi, oil, 1601
The Stigmatization of Saint Francis, by Orazio Gentileschi, oil, 1601

The Stigmatization of Saint Francis is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Orazio Gentileschi. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

About this work

Overview

The Stigmatization of Saint Francis is a 1601 oil painting by Orazio Gentileschi, an Italian artist from Tuscany.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Saint Francis of Assisi receiving the stigmata, with the saint lying on the ground and an angel standing over him. The scene conveys a sense of calmness and devotion, capturing a pivotal moment in the saint's life.

Technique & Style

Gentileschi employed chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth. The painting reflects his shift from a Mannerist style to a more naturalistic approach, influenced by Caravaggio.

History & Provenance

Created early in Gentileschi's career while he was working in Rome, the painting is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Orazio Gentileschi

Artist

Orazio Gentileschi

Orazio Lomi Gentileschi (Italian pronunciation: ; 1563 – 7 February 1639) was an Italian painter.