St. Francis Renouncing his Worldly Goods 1320

This fresco, painted by the Italian artist Giotto in the early 14th century, depicts the moment when St. Francis renounces his worldly possessions. Located in the Basilica di Santa Croce in Florence, the scene portrays a dramatic moment in the life of the saint, as he stands before his father and a group of witnesses, shedding his clothes as a symbol of his commitment to poverty and a life dedicated to God. Giotto's realistic and emotive style, evident in the expressive figures and the detailed setting, marks a significant departure from the flat, stylized forms of earlier art. The fresco is a powerful testament to St. Francis's radical commitment to a life of humility and service.