The miracles of St. Francis Xavier 1617 - 1618

Peter Paul Rubens' "The Miracles of St. Francis Xavier" (1617-1618) is a dramatic Baroque painting depicting the Jesuit missionary Saint Francis Xavier performing miracles. The central figure of St. Xavier, dressed in black, stands before a crowd of believers, extending his hand toward a man who has been brought back to life. In the background, angels descend from heaven while demons flee from the power of the saint. Rubens' dynamic composition and use of light and shadow create a sense of awe and wonder, reflecting the miraculous nature of the subject matter. This painting is a testament to the power of faith and the influence of the Catholic Church during Rubens' time.