Decorative Picture. The Vision of Saint Francis with the Three White Virgins 1892

G.F. Clement created this painting of Saint Francis with the Three White Virgins using traditional oil paints. The material's influence is evident in the painting's appearance. The opaque colors create flat, decorative shapes, while the visible brushstrokes add a subtle texture. The way Clement applied the oil paint—thinly and evenly—lends a sense of calm and serenity, fitting for the subject matter. It's worth noting that oil painting, while a traditional artistic technique, was also industrialized in the 19th century, with mass-produced paints becoming readily available. Clement skillfully uses this medium to create a modern, stylized depiction of a religious scene, balancing the historical weight of the subject with a contemporary aesthetic. Understanding the materials and making process allows us to appreciate the artistry involved, and challenges any rigid separation between fine art and the wider world of creative practices.