Who painted A Miracle of Saint Francis of Paola?

A Miracle of Saint Francis of Paola was painted by Pietro Novelli in 1635.

Where can I see A Miracle of Saint Francis of Paola?

A Miracle of Saint Francis of Paola is held by National Gallery of Ireland.

Artwork

A Miracle of Saint Francis of Paola

A Miracle of Saint Francis of Paola is an oil painting by Pietro Novelli. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1635 by the Sicilian Baroque painter Pietro Novelli, this oil on canvas portrays a moment from the life of Saint Francis of Paola. The work resides in the National Gallery of Ireland and exemplifies Novelli’s reputation for carefully balanced religious compositions during the early seventeenth century.

Subject & Meaning

The scene gathers several figures around a dark, sizeable vessel, suggesting the saint’s reputed miracle of providing water. A man in a brown habit leans over the container, while another, distinguished by a red sash, observes. The composition invites contemplation of the saint’s charitable act and the humility of the surrounding onlookers.

Technique & Style

Novelli employs chiaroscuro to model forms, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to give the figures a three‑dimensional presence. The muted, earthy background recedes, allowing the illuminated central figure to dominate the viewer’s attention. The overall tone is restrained, emphasizing quiet reflection rather than dramatic spectacle.

History & Provenance

Born in 1603, Novelli earned the nickname “the Raphael of Sicily” for his refined approach to Baroque painting. After remaining in private collections for centuries, the canvas entered the National Gallery of Ireland’s holdings, where it is displayed as part of the museum’s European religious art collection.