H. Franciscus van Assisi omhelst Christus aan het kruis before 1585

This small engraving by Wierix, dating from before 1585, depicts Saint Francis of Assisi embracing Christ on the cross. The composition is a powerful representation of the saint's devotion and the suffering of Christ. The detail of the church in the background further contextualizes the scene as a religious one. The inscription at the bottom is a Latin quote reflecting the theme of love and sacrifice. This work exemplifies the mastery of detail and the expressive power characteristic of Wierix's engravings. The small scale and the intimate subject matter make it suitable for personal devotion and contemplation.