Saint Francis Kneeling in Meditation

El Greco

Created:
Movement:
c. 1595–c. 1600
Mannerism
key Notes:
Mannerist Spirituality, Dramatic Chiaroscuro
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Dimensions:
92 × 74 cm (36 3/16 × 24 1/8 in.); Framed: 112.4 × 94.6 × 8.9 cm (44 1/4 × 37 1/4 × 3 1/2 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Saint Francis Kneeling in Meditation" by El Greco depicts the saint in a moment of spiritual contemplation, characterized by the artist's distinctive elongated forms and dramatic use of light and shadow. This work reflects El Greco's synthesis of Byzantine traditions with Western Mannerist influences, capturing the mystical and ascetic aspects of Saint Francis's devotion.

Description of the work:

"Saint Francis Kneeling in Meditation" by El Greco depicts the saint in a moment of introspection, characterized by elongated forms and dramatic use of chiaroscuro, which are hallmarks of the artist's style. The composition features a somber palette dominated by earthy tones, with Saint Francis's gaze directed upwards, conveying a sense of spiritual contemplation amidst a sparse, atmospheric background.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Saint Francis Kneeling in Meditation