Artwork
Saint Francis
Saint Francis is an oil painting by the Late Mannerist artist Federico Barocci. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
Iconographically, the composition features the saint alongside a book, a traditional attribute symbolizing his devotion to scripture and the stigmata.
The painting depicts Saint Francis of Assisi, identified as the main subject, engaged in a religious vision that includes the figure of Christ. Created by Federico Barocci in 1598, the work is classified within the genre of religious art. Iconographically, the composition features the saint alongside a book, a traditional attribute symbolizing his devotion to scripture and the stigmata.
The inclusion of Christ indicates a moment of divine encounter or spiritual revelation central to the Franciscan narrative. As an oil painting on canvas, the piece visualizes the intimate relationship between the saint and the divine, emphasizing themes of piety and mystical experience characteristic of Barocci's late style.
Technique & Style
Executed in 1598, this religious painting by Federico Barocci utilizes oil paint applied to a canvas support. The work measures approximately 91.1 cm in height and 79.7 cm in width. As a depiction of Francis of Assisi alongside Christ and a book, the piece exemplifies Barocci's late-sixteenth-century approach to sacred subjects through the medium of oil on canvas.
The specific combination of materials and the dimensions recorded indicate a standard easel painting format typical of the artist's output during this period, currently held within the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
History & Provenance
Created in 1598 by the Italian artist Federico Barocci, this oil painting on canvas depicts Saint Francis of Assisi alongside Christ and a book. The work, measuring approximately 91.1 by 79.7 centimeters, is classified as religious art. While the specific circumstances of its original commission and the detailed chain of ownership prior to its current location are not detailed in the available records, the painting is presently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The inception date is firmly established as 1598, marking its creation during the late sixteenth century.
Overview
Federico Barocci, known as Il Baroccio, created this oil painting titled Saint Francis around 1600. The work exemplifies the late Mannerist period and portrays Saint Francis of Assisi in a moment of contemplation. This religious composition is currently housed in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Barocci's distinct approach to religious subjects was highly regarded in central Italy during his lifetime.
Legacy
Federico Barocci enjoyed significant acclaim throughout central Italy during his career. His innovative use of color, light, and emotional expression established him as a pivotal figure in the transition from Mannerism to the Baroque era. Barocci's distinctive style and spiritual intensity profoundly influenced subsequent generations of artists, notably impacting the work of prominent Baroque painters such as Peter Paul Rubens, who drew inspiration from his dynamic compositions and expressive figures.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Federico Barocci (also written Barozzi) (c. 1535 – 30 September 1612) was an Italian Renaissance painter and printmaker. His original name was Federico Fiori, and he was nicknamed Il Baroccio. His work was highly…
