The artwork “St Francis Receiving the Stigmata” is a distinguished piece by Jan Van Eyck, dating back to circa 1427. This religious painting falls within the Northern Renaissance movement, characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and innovative use of oil on panel as a medium. The artwork is modest in scale, measuring approximately 12.5 x 14.5 cm, and currently resides in the Sabauda Gallery, Turin, Italy.
This compelling piece portrays the moment when St. Francis of Assisi receives the stigmata—wounds corresponding to those of Christ’s crucifixion. In the foreground, St. Francis is depicted with a transfixed gaze upon a crucified seraph (a six-winged angel with the face of Christ), symbolizing the miraculous event of the stigmata’s impartation. His companion, Brother Leo, appears to be deep in prayer or perhaps asleep, seemingly oblivious to the mystical occurrence. The artwork is set in a rugged landscape that subtly transitions from the rocky terrain where the figures are placed to a detailed, idyllic cityscape in the background. The meticulous precision in rendering the figures, as well as the landscape with its various elements of flora and architectural details, exemplifies Van Eyck’s mastery over the oil medium and his ability to infuse a small-scale painting with grandeur and depth.
