St. Francis 1610

Guido Reni’s “St. Francis” (1610) is a striking depiction of the iconic Italian saint in a moment of contemplation. The painting showcases Reni’s masterful use of chiaroscuro, creating a dramatic interplay of light and shadow that emphasizes St. Francis’s introspective gaze. The saint, dressed in his Franciscan habit, is depicted holding a skull, a symbol of mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly existence. Reni’s “St. Francis” is a classic example of Baroque art, characterized by its emotive portrayal of religious figures and its emphasis on dramatic lighting and composition.