Artwork
Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata
Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Titian. It dates from 1530 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Around 1530, Titian produced a woodcut on laid paper titled *Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata*. The image captures the moment the Franciscan saint is marked with the wounds of Christ. Executed in the early Renaissance, the print reflects Titian’s engagement with religious subjects beyond his well‑known paintings.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a kneeling Saint Francis, his hands raised and his expression one of astonishment as the divine wounds appear. A sparse landscape frames the figure, emphasizing the spiritual encounter and the intensity of the saint’s mystical experience.
Technique & Style
Created by carving a design into wooden blocks, the print relies on bold incised lines and textured surfaces characteristic of woodcut production. The use of laid paper provides a subtle grain that interacts with the stark contrasts of black ink, highlighting the dramatic gesture of the figure.
History & Provenance
Although primarily known as a painter, Titian’s foray into printmaking demonstrates his versatility. The work was produced in Italy during the height of the Renaissance and has been documented in collections of early modern prints, illustrating the artist’s influence on subsequent Italian printmakers.
Artist & collection
Artist
Tiziano Vecellio (Italian: ; c. 1488/1490 – 27 August 1576), Latinized as Titianus, hence known in English as Titian ( TISH-ən), was an Italian Renaissance painter. The most important artist of Renaissance Venetian…
