St. Francis Receiving the Stigmata 1887

Edward Burne-Jones's 1887 watercolor, "St. Francis Receiving the Stigmata," depicts a pivotal moment in the life of the saint, known for his devotion to Christ. St. Francis kneels in prayer as an angel descends from the heavens with the stigmata, or wounds of Christ. The angel's outstretched arms and feathered wings create a dramatic contrast against the soft, muted tones of the sky and desert landscape, underscoring the divine power of this sacred event. This intimate yet impactful composition is typical of the Pre-Raphaelite aesthetic, known for its detailed realism and mystical symbolism.