Embleem met verering van Heilige Franciscus van Assisi die in deugd leefde 1620 - 1649

Curator: Looking at this engraving, I am struck by how the allegorical figures and landscape blend to create this complex narrative. Editor: Yes, it's arresting. A bit overwhelming at first glance. The sheer detail in monochrome. I can tell that the artist has really attempted to put as much as possible into this single work. What do you see here? Curator: This piece, dating from sometime between 1620 and 1649, bears the title "Embleem met verering van Heilige Franciscus van Assisi die in deugd leefde", which translates to "Emblem with worship of Saint Francis of Assisi who lived in virtue." Though attributed to Anonymous, it clearly seeks to visually encapsulate Francis's devout life through its layered symbolism. The piece can be found here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: Saint Francis in Baroque monochrome. Interesting... I wonder what virtues it highlights through this symbolism. Is the format typical for the period, perhaps circulating certain views on the role of Saint Francis and his saintly deeds? I'm very interested in that heart image. Is that Francis's heart? What does it show? Curator: The central heart, pierced with angelic love and nestled within a larger divine scene, directly echoes his devotion. Below that we see the friars and clergy who surround him in almost all hagiographies. Above, Francis is among those who may pass into paradise. There's a strong sense of order and purpose in these scenes. It suggests this earthly saint's virtue extends to the wider cultural view, where monastic life itself has deep value. It feels like it makes him into a monument to religious work. Editor: Perhaps... Or does it indicate that the "reward" awaits in the heavenly sphere above if the virtues exemplified by St. Francis are heeded on earth. This reading offers some commentary on the power dynamics in that particular slice of history. There’s so much going on here that speaks to the socio-cultural place of religion in that time. Curator: Indeed! From the top heavenly spheres, to earthly trials and celebrations on Earth, the print does ask us to reflect on Francis's profound impact through his virtue and his faith. It’s a lovely summary and reminder to remember him by, whatever your station in life. Editor: Absolutely. This deep dive helps me grasp why Saint Francis remained such an influential figure, translated here, literally, into an emblem of moral guidance. Thanks to this careful depiction, he has found immortality through faith and artistry.