St. Francis of Assisi 1877

Gustave Doré’s "St. Francis of Assisi" depicts a saint with his hand raised in a gesture laden with spiritual authority, standing before a figure of Eastern opulence. Consider the raised hand, a universal symbol of communication with the divine. This motif echoes across cultures, from ancient Egyptian art to classical oratory, always signifying a connection to higher powers. Even today, we find remnants of it in the courtroom oath or a benediction. Yet, observe how the meaning subtly shifts. In earlier depictions, the gesture might denote power or command, but in Doré's rendering, it is tempered with humility and a call for understanding. The figure of St. Francis—barefoot, humble—contrasts sharply with the intricate patterns and rich fabrics that surround the seated figure. This contrast is not merely aesthetic; it speaks to the subconscious tug-of-war between spiritual and earthly realms. Doré masterfully uses this visual dichotomy to evoke a deep, emotional response. This potent scene demonstrates how symbols are never static, forever resurfacing, evolving, and accruing new layers of meaning throughout history.