Deus cordis mei Deus meus n omnia

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This is a finely detailed, vintage religious engraving, rich in Christian symbolism and devotional meaning. It depicts Saint Francis of Assisi kneeling in adoration before the Crucified Christ, with a powerful spiritual exchange taking place between them.

 Main Figures & Composition.

Jesus Christ on the Cross. At the left, Jesus is shown crucified, wearing the crown of thorns, His head bowed in a gesture of compassion and suffering. His side wound is visible, and rays of divine light emanate from His body, particularly towards Saint Francis. Above His head is the "INRI" inscription — Latin initials for "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews."

Saint Francis of Assisi. On the right, Saint Francis, dressed in the traditional Franciscan habit, kneels in veneration. His hands are raised in awe and surrender. His face shows deep emotion and devotion. The habit includes a knotted cord belt and a rosary with a gold cross hanging from it. His posture and expression reflect his mystical union with the suffering Christ.

 The Sacred Heart of Jesus. Between Christ and Saint Francis, a flaming heart with a cross and wings is depicted — representing the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a symbol of divine love and sacrifice. The rays of light from Christ’s body connect to this heart, which is shown flying toward Saint Francis — indicating a spiritual gift or union, possibly an allusion to the stigmata that Saint Francis received.

In the background, a monastery or chapel is seen on a hill, signifying a place of prayer or retreat. At the foot of the Cross lie a skull and bones (memento mori, or reminder of death), and books, likely representing Holy Scripture or Franciscan writings. The landscape evokes solitude and contemplation — key aspects of Franciscan spirituality.

Inscription (Latin)

“Deus cordis mei Deus meus & omnia.”

“God of my heart, my God and my all.”

This phrase echoes the famous prayer of Saint Francis: “My God and my all!” — expressing his total surrender and love for God.

Below that, "Hieronymus Wierx fecit et excud", which indicates that Hieronymus Wierix, a noted Flemish engraver of the late 16th to early 17th century, created and printed this artwork.

The overall scene reflects the Franciscan ideal of perfect imitation of Christ, especially in His suffering and humility. It emphasizes Saint Francis’s mystical experience and union with Christ's Sacred Heart.

The engraving style and iconography are typical of the Counter-Reformation period, meant to inspire deep personal devotion and emotional connection to Christ’s Passion.

Get 2 digital restored images (including the one on this post), now on sale