Standing Franciscan Saint in a Niche 1650 - 1700

This 17th-century drawing, "Standing Franciscan Saint in a Niche," is a work by an anonymous artist, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The drawing depicts a Franciscan saint, perhaps Saint Anthony of Padua, standing within a niche. The saint is depicted wearing a traditional Franciscan habit and holding a staff with a crucifix, a symbol of faith. The artist's use of wash and pen allows the viewer to visualize the saint's simple yet striking presence. The drawing also features a decorative arch above the niche, which is filled with an elaborate, radiating pattern, likely representing the saint's halo.