H. Franciscus van Paola in extase Possibly 1608 - 1688

"H. Franciscus van Paola in extase" is an etching by Claude Mellan, a prominent French Baroque artist known for his precise and detailed linework. The artwork depicts Saint Francis of Paola in a state of religious ecstasy, surrounded by clouds and two angels, with an emphasis on the saint’s dramatic pose. This piece showcases Mellan's masterful use of line to convey depth and emotion, highlighting the saint's spiritual experience. The etching, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a prime example of Mellan's signature style, evident in the meticulous detail and the dramatic use of light and shadow.