Vision of Saint Francis by Jose de Ribera

Saint Francis stands in front of a skull, but contemplating the angel who shows him a glass sphere filled with very clear water. This container symbolizes the purity that anyone aspiring to the priesthood should have. Francis believed that he would never reach such perfection and declines this holy call. On the other hand, the skull, and the whip allude to penitence and humility. This dark canvas has strongly illuminated figures, with great attention to details of the scarce objects (1636 oil on canvas).