Saint Franciscus 17th-18th century

Curator: This is Jacobus Coelemans’ Saint Franciscus. Look at the saint, arms outstretched, bathed in divine light. It's a dramatic scene. Editor: It's interesting how the rays almost seem like wires, suspending Francis in this moment of what I assume is supposed to be spiritual ecstasy. Is it truly empowering or is it a gilded cage? Curator: Well, Coelemans often imbues his figures with a sense of theatricality, drawing on baroque sensibilities. I feel that St. Francis is receiving sacred stigmata; his open posture invites divine intervention. Editor: The putti at the base almost seem annoyed to be there. The one in the center looks like he is covering his ears! Curator: To me, they represent the earthly realm witnessing the celestial. They are overwhelmed by the sheer force of God. Editor: Perhaps, but there's something unsettling about it too. It makes me think about the imposition of religious authority. Curator: I still see a story of transformation, of spiritual awakening. Editor: And I see the ways in which power dynamics are visualized. It gives me something to consider.