Saint Francis of Assisi in Ecstasy

Caravaggio revolutionized painting in his era through a theatrical use of light, dramatic narrative, and the naturalistic depiction of everyday people and objects. These hallmarks can already be seen here, in his first known religious composition. Saint Francis is just emerging from an ecstatic state cradled by an angel, while shepherds sit in the shadowy background bathed in a mystical light. Identifying himself with Christ’s suffering, Saint Francis has just received the stigmata—the actual wounds of the Crucifixion—visible only on his side in Caravaggio’s interpretation.

We present this masterpiece thanks to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art.  : )

P.S. Here's another religious-themed masterpiece by Caravaggio, a portrait of St. John the Baptist.

P.P.S. Don't forget to check our DailyArt Calendars for 2022 here!! :)