H. Franciscus lezend in een grot 1649

Wenceslaus Hollar's 1649 etching, "H. Franciscus lezend in een grot" (Saint Francis Reading in a Cave), depicts the iconic saint in a contemplative setting. The image showcases a deep focus on detail, characteristic of Hollar's style, as Francis is shown kneeling, absorbed in his reading. The presence of a skull, books, and a crucifix emphasizes the themes of mortality and faith that are central to the saint's life. This etching is a powerful example of Hollar's ability to capture the essence of religious devotion through a combination of skillful draftsmanship and compelling subject matter.