Who painted Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata?

Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata was painted by Pier Francesco Mola in 1655.

Where can I see Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata?

Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata?

Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata?

Museum-quality prints of Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata

Pier Francesco Mola , 1655

Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Pier Francesco Mola. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:by later hand, lower left in red chalk :Parmegiano; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: 41

About this work

Overview

Created around 1655, Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata is a red chalk drawing on laid paper by Italian High Baroque artist Pier Francesco Mola, known for his naturalistic and landscape-influenced style.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the pivotal moment of Saint Francis of Assisi receiving the stigmata (Christ's wounds), a frequent theme in religious art, conveying themes of pain and devotion through the figure's posture.

Technique & Style

Executed solely in red chalk, the work contrasts light shading with bold, dark strokes. The rough chalk texture and expressive, swirling background lines suggest a sense of urgency and dynamic movement.

History & Provenance

The drawing is part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, D.C.

Context

Mola's emphasis on naturalism and his use of landscape elements (implied through the rocky ground and suggested movement) differentiated his work from the more formal conventions of his contemporaries.