St. Francis de Paul 1627 - 1640

Editor: Here we have an engraving dating back to sometime between 1627 and 1640, "St. Francis de Paul," by an anonymous artist, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The image depicts the saint in what looks to me like deep prayer. What really strikes me is the presence of both the crucifix and the skull, side-by-side. What do you make of it? Curator: Indeed, the juxtaposition is potent, isn't it? Consider that these aren't merely objects but powerful symbols. The crucifix, radiating light, embodies sacrifice, redemption, and eternal life – deeply embedded within Christian cultural memory. And beside it, the skull... what stories does that tell? Editor: Well, skulls are pretty commonly understood as memento mori, reminders of mortality. Curator: Exactly. It’s a symbol deeply rooted in our understanding of life’s impermanence. Placed next to the radiant crucifix, it encourages contemplation. Saint Francis isn't simply praying; he is actively mediating on his own mortality in light of his faith, seeking spiritual strength and perhaps reflecting on the suffering and resurrection of Christ. What feelings does the inscription, especially "tabescet in me anima mea," evoke in you? Editor: That phrase… "my soul languishes within me…" suggests a real internal struggle, maybe a feeling of being worn down by life. It adds a layer of vulnerability. I see the piece now as not just about piety but also about a very human battle. Curator: Precisely! Mellan, even while depicting religious figures, taps into universal emotions: hope, fear, and the longing for meaning in the face of death. Editor: It's amazing how symbols, like these, create dialogues across time. Curator: Absolutely. These visual languages transcend eras, allowing us to connect with the anxieties and aspirations of those who came before. Each piece reminds us that humans, in their core, remain consistently searching.