Attributed to Giovanni di Francia (active 1451-1462)
Saint Francis, about 1450
Tempera on lime plaster (transfered to linen) , 148 x 82.5 cm (58 1/4 x 32 1/2 in.)
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This painting depicts the haloed figure of Saint Francis standing in front of a wall. On the wall is what appears to be a tapestry with a swirling leaf pattern. The figure of Saint Francis appears turned slightly to our right, with much of his face visible. He is light-skinned and bald, and his eyes are open. He wears a collared robe that falls in folds almost to the floor. The front of his right foot and the side of his left foot are visible. His right arm is bent at waist level and he holds a book in that hand. His left arm is bent up and he holds a cross in that hand.
East, North, and West Cloister
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.