Saint Francis 1430 Lorenzo di Bicci

Image: St. Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata (1430), by Lorenzo di Bicci

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In the summer of 1224, Francis visited a mountain retreat at Della Verna near Assisi. After weeks of intense prayer, an angel on a cross appeared. The painter shows mystical rays of light emanating from the angel and leaving Francis with stigmata, wounds resembling those Christ suffered at the time of his crucifixion. Behind the saint, a follower throws up his hands in amazement. This predella panel, which was mounted in a row of related scenes below a larger painting, retains its original frame.

The author, Lorenzo di Bicci was an Italian painter, enrolled in the Florentine painters' guild. He was an exponent of the more traditional current in 15-century Florentine painting, was the founder of one of the largest and most active artistic workshops in the city. He was joined by his son, during the 15th century, and followed by his grandson Neri di Bicci, who, after a period of apprenticeship, inherited both the workshop management and clients. The dynasty's most prosperous period was under the direction of Neri di Bicci, whose paintings were sought by members of every level of society.

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