Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata

The "Stigmatization of Saint Francis" is a work attributed to the Flemish painter Jan van Eyck, existing in two nearly identical versions. The older one, located in the Philadelphia Museum of Art and dated around 1428-1429, measures 12.5×14.5 cm. The second replica, larger (29.3x33.4 cm) and dated 1432, is preserved in the Galleria Sabauda in Turin. Both works depict Saint Francis of Assisi kneeling, receiving the stigmata from a crucifix appearing in the sky. The figure of Saint Francis is detailed, with his heavy robe seeming to approach the viewer, creating a levitation effect. The wounds are visible but not ostentatious, making the representation more realistic. Friar Leo is depicted more compactly, symbolizing continuity between the founder of the order and the Franciscans. The mountainous landscape, with rocks and a distant city, is an invention of Van Eyck and harmonizes with the colors of the friars' habits.