Venetian master, second half of the 17th cent... Lot n° 33

According to the biographies, the vision of an angel playing a lute or violin in heaven transpired in 1225, just one year prior to the passing of St. Francis. In this painting, the celestial being appears to St. Francis as he engages in scripture reading and contemplation. Leaning back, weakened by ascetic practices and illness, the saint gazes upward at the angelic musician. His right hand rests upon the open tome, supported by a skull, while the crucifix is clutched to his chest with the other hand. Kneeling upon a billowing cloud, the angel serenades Francis with heavenly melodies, offering solace during his infirmity. Radiant light emanates behind the celestial visitor, while cherubic heads emerge in the clouds, harmonizing with the celestial music. The artist skillfully renders St. Francis's hands, notably depicting the stigmata received during the moment of stigmatization in 1224. This gesture symbolizes his profound devotion to Christ.The other hand, placed on the book symbolizes his physical weakness and his willingness to open himself to God. The masterful use of color, light, and shadow in the Venetian tradition imbues the composition with a richly atmospheric quality, showcasing the artist's technical prowess.Oil on canvas, 98 × 82cm