The artwork titled “Saint Francis in Prayer” by Caravaggio, created around 1610, is an oil painting on canvas that measures 130 x 98 cm. This piece is categorized within the Baroque and Tenebrism movements and is recognized as a significant religious painting. Presently, the artwork is housed in two locations: Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini in Rome, Italy, and the National Gallery of Ancient Art (GNAA) in Rome, Italy.
The artwork depicts Saint Francis, donning a traditional monastic robe, engaged in deep reflection while holding a skull in his hands. This symbolic gesture underscores themes of mortality and spiritual contemplation. The painting is characterized by dramatic contrasts of light and dark, demonstrating Caravaggio’s masterful use of tenebrism to evoke a profound emotional response. The Saint’s solemn expression and the muted color palette contribute to the contemplative atmosphere of the scene. Notably, the artist’s attention to detail in the textures of the robe and the lifelike representation of the skull enhance the overall realism and depth of the painting.
