Franciscan Friar embracing death
Español Franciscan Friar Embracing Death. Illuminated Initial "D" from a Choir Book, c. 1460 This exquisite illuminated initial, created around 1460 for a Franciscan choir book, presents one of the most profound and enduring themes of Franciscan spirituality. Within the richly ornamented letter "D," a humble friar embraces a human skeleton in a gesture that is neither fearful nor sorrowful, but peaceful and affectionate. Although the figure does not display the stigmata traditionally associated with Saint Francis of Assisi, his simple gray habit, delicate golden halo, and the subject itself strongly suggest that the artist intended to portray the founder of the Franciscan Order. The surrounding border, enlivened with brilliant reds, blues, gilding, and curling vegetal motifs, reflects the elegance and refinement of fifteenth-century manuscript illumination while framing a meditation on one of life's greatest mysteries. The scene draws its inspiration from Saint...
