“St. Francis receiving the stigmata” is a notable artwork by El Greco, a master of the Mannerism movement during the Late Renaissance period. The artwork, which is believed to have been created around 1590 in Spain, is an oil painting on canvas with dimensions of 102 by 97 centimeters. Characterized as a religious painting, this artwork is part of the prestigious collection at the National Gallery of Ireland, located in Dublin, Ireland.
The artwork captures a solemn and spiritual moment, depicting St. Francis of Assisi in a moment of divine communion, as he receives the stigmata. St. Francis is presented with a dramatic illumination that is characteristic of El Greco’s unique approach to light and form, enhancing the mystical and emotional intensity of the scene.
St. Francis’s expression is one of deep ecstasy or contemplation, his eyes lifted skyward as if in direct communication with the divine. The saint is shown with his hands outstretched, reflecting the openness and receptivity of his miraculous experience. To the left, one can discern a faint representation of seraphic light, indicating the presence of the divine and the miraculous occurrence. The dark, ethereal background helps to focus the viewer’s attention on the intense spirituality of the subject.
El Greco’s handling of the figure is characteristic of Mannerism, with elongated limbs and an emotional intensity that deviates from classical Renaissance norms. The rough and visible brushstrokes contribute to the overall feeling of dynamism and movement within the static composition. This artwork is a testimony to El Greco’s skill in blending spiritual themes with a highly expressive style that seeks to move beyond the physical to capture the ineffable nature of religious experiences.
